Scientists have discovered 16 fossilized wasps, perfectly preserved for 99 million years, on a hillside in Hukawng Valley, Myanmar. The researchers found that the ancient wasps had a unique trap-like abdomen, similar to a Venus flytrap, which likely captured and immobilized insects. Unlike modern parasitic wasps, this ancient species had a specialized abdominal structure with three flaps, one of which was paddle-shaped and covered in fine bristles.
The team believes that Sirenobethylus charybdis, the name given to this ancient wasp, may have used its grasping mechanism to briefly trap insects while laying eggs. This discovery suggests that parasitic wasps in the mid-Cretaceous period had a greater variety of hunting strategies than their modern relatives.
The name “S. charybdis” is derived from Greek mythology’s sea monster, Charybdis, which swallowed and regurgitated water three times a day. The researchers speculate that this ancient wasp may have used its deadly grip to seize prey before releasing them into an even more gruesome fate.
This remarkable discovery provides new insights into the evolution of parasitic wasps and their hunting strategies.
Source: https://www.discoverwildlife.com/prehistoric-life/sirenobethylus-charybdis-myanmar