The wasps first sting the roaches twice - once to subdue them, and then a second sting directly into their brain! However, unlike most venomous parasites, this does not paralyze the roach completely. The venom in the brain blocks a key neurotransmitter, inhibiting the roach's independent movement. (For more about the science behind this, check out the article.
The wasp then leads the cockroach back to its lair, where it lays an egg on its belly. The egg eventually hatches, and the newborn larva is treated to its very own cockroach dinner!
The wasp then leads the cockroach back to its lair, where it lays an egg on its belly. The egg eventually hatches, and the newborn larva is treated to its very own cockroach dinner!
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