Parasitic Wasp That Caught Prey in 'Venus Flytrap' Body Discovered in Amber

Newsweek - Mar 27th, 2025

Paleontologists have uncovered a new species of ancient wasp, named Sirenobethylus charybdis, which used a Venus flytrap-like mechanism in its abdomen to restrain prey. This discovery, made by an international team from China and Denmark, suggests the wasp was a 'koinobiont' parasitoid, laying eggs in living hosts. The specimens, found in Myanmar's Kachin region, date back to the mid-Cretaceous period, approximately 98.79 million years ago. The wasp likely targeted small, mobile insects, using its unique abdominal apparatus to capture prey efficiently.

The research highlights a previously unknown diversity of parasitoid strategies among Chrysidoidea in the Cretaceous period, differing from their modern relatives like cuckoo wasps and bethylid wasps. The study, led by Taiping Gao and colleagues, utilized micro-CT scanning to analyze the wasps preserved in amber. Given the distinct wing vein patterns, the researchers propose categorizing S. charybdis in a separate family, broadening our understanding of insect evolution and the ecological dynamics of ancient ecosystems.

Paleontology Myanmar Sirenobethylus Charybdis Ancient Wasp Discovery Cretaceous Period Parasitoid Strategies Chrysidoidea

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The news story provides an accurate and engaging account of the discovery of *Sirenobethylus charybdis*, an ancient wasp species with unique anatomical features. It is supported by credible scientific research, enhancing its reliability. The article is well-structured and clear, making it accessible to a broad audience. However, it could benefit from greater balance by including diverse expert opinions and more detailed explanations of scientific terms and methodologies. While the story is unlikely to provoke controversy, it effectively captures the public's interest in scientific discoveries and contributes to a broader understanding of ancient biodiversity. Overall, the article is a commendable piece of science journalism that successfully informs and educates its readers.

Accuracy

The news story is largely accurate, with its claims well-supported by scientific evidence. The discovery of *Sirenobethylus charybdis* and its unique anatomical features are accurately described, with the study's use of micro-CT scanning providing a robust basis for these claims. The article correctly notes the wasp's potential classification into a new family due to its distinct hind wing vein patterns. However, the story could benefit from additional verification on the exact nature of its parasitoid behavior and comparisons to modern species. The scientific paper cited in the article lends credibility, but further details from the study could enhance precision.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view of the discovery, focusing on the scientific aspects of the wasp's anatomy and behavior. It does not show overt bias or favoritism towards any particular viewpoint. However, it could have included perspectives from other experts in the field to provide a more comprehensive view of the significance of this discovery. The absence of counterarguments or alternative interpretations of the data slightly diminishes its balance.

Clarity

The article is well-written and logically structured, making it easy for readers to follow the main points. The language used is clear and accessible, suitable for a general audience. However, some technical terms, such as 'koinobiont,' could benefit from further explanation to enhance comprehension for readers unfamiliar with entomological terminology.

Source quality

The primary source of information is a scientific study published in *BMC Biology*, a reputable journal, which indicates high source quality. The involvement of an international research team from China and Denmark adds to the credibility. However, the article could have strengthened its source quality by citing more diverse sources or expert opinions to corroborate the findings and interpretations presented.

Transparency

The article provides a reasonable level of transparency by referencing the scientific study and outlining the research methods used. However, it lacks detailed explanations of the methodology and potential conflicts of interest. Greater transparency about the limitations of the study and the context of the findings would improve the reader's understanding of the research's reliability and implications.