11 October 2026
(Ktyr. PHOTO: Askania-Nova)
At the 3rd Conference of the Ukrainian Entomological Society, scientists presented the results of a study on the rare ctenid Anisopogon hermanni, which was first discovered in the Kherson region. The specimens were collected by Ruslan Mishustin, a researcher at the “Askania-Nova” Nature Reserve.
This was reported by the F.E. Falz-Fein “Askania-Nova” Biosphere Reserve.
Subsequently, the insect specimens were jointly studied by Valery Korneev, a corresponding member of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, and American entomologist Chris Cohen.
Valery Korneev conducted molecular analysis and electron microscopy, comprehensively analyzed the data obtained, and determined the species affiliation of the specimens. He also prepared and presented a report at the conference.
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The joint study focused on the challenges of morphological and molecular identification of Anisopogon hermanni.
Tyrannid wasps are a family of large predatory dipteran insects. They have an elongated, densely hairy body, large eyes, and a strong proboscis, which they use to pierce the chitinous exoskeleton of their prey, including flies, bees, and even beetles. Unlike many other insects, robber flies hunt in flight in open, sunlit areas, stalking their prey from ambush. Their saliva contains a potent toxin that instantly paralyzes the prey and dissolves its internal tissues.
Юлія Калабайда