Identification and description of the invasive species Isodontia mexicana

From artificial shelters in 2024, on the territory of the Institute of Genetics, Physiology and Plant Protection, a new for the Republic of Moldova fauna, invasive species of digging wasps (Sphecidae) — Isodontia mexicana — was obtained, identified and described. The wasps were found in the closest to the forest belt biotope of the 3 variants, in shaded areas. Thus, the introduction of agro-ecological schemes (AES) containing a combination of artificial shelters with landscape heterogeneity is an important factor in increasing the abundance of digging wasps, which are able to provide ecosystem services of high economic value (pollination and pest control).