An “alien” parasitic wasp was found in the Amazon (6 photos)

Scientists have discovered a new species of parasitic wasp in the Amazon - Capitojoppa amazonica. Not only does she look like an alien, but she also eats her victims from the inside. The species was found during a study of the Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve in Peru.





Scientists from the University of Utah, USA, discovered a new species of wasp in the Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve in Peru. The team found a female specimen and studied it in the laboratory. Experts immediately noted the unusual appearance of the wasp: due to its large head and bulging eyes, it resembles an alien creature. The new species is named Capitojoppa amazonica.



This wasp is an endoparasitoid: a parasite that lays an egg inside its victim, which kills the victim as it grows. The wasp does this using a special tube-like organ for laying eggs. They can even simply pierce the victim with their “ovipositor” - and not lay eggs, but simply feed on blood to obtain the necessary substances. Its diet includes a variety of insects, including beetles, spiders and caterpillars.



In addition to the parasitic wasp, during the past study, scientists discovered another 108 new species of insects; they plan to describe them soon. The Allpajuyao Mishane National Reserve in Peru is home to many different species of insects among the tropical forests. The local species diversity is the highest on the entire planet. Scientists have been exploring these regions of the Amazon since 1998. Unfortunately, habitats are now being reduced due to human activities, and the nature of the rainforest is changing due to climate change.