The first known troglomorphic, eyeless spider wasp (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae): Troglopompilus miracaecatus gen. et sp. nov. from the Nullarbor Caves, Western Australia

Austral Entomology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Juanita Rodríguez, Andrew D. Austin, Jessica Marsh
DOI: 10.1111/aen.70061
Cited by: 2
References: 30

Abstract

Abstract Surveys of caves of the Nullarbor Plain, Western Australia, revealed a remarkable assemblage of exceptionally well‐preserved mummified arthropods, comprising Araneae, Blattodea, Coleoptera and Chilopoda, all of which exhibit high levels of troglomorphism, lacking eyes and showing a number of other adaptations. Of note, this arthropod assemblage also included a pompilid wasp which is eyeless and brachypterous and unlike any member of the family known globally. Here, we describe this amazing wasp as Troglopompilus miracaecatus gen. et sp. nov. , and discuss its remarkable morphology and possible affinities and biology.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy Fossil Insects in Amber Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Austral Entomology
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
65
Issue
2
Publication date
1 April 2026
Language
EN