About Tachysphex nigerrimus (F.Smith, 1856)
Tachysphex nigerrimus, commonly called the black cockroach hunter, is a species of wasp that belongs to the family Crabronidae. It is endemic to New Zealand, and it is the only species of the genus Tachysphex that occurs in the country. In 2024, this wasp was nominated for New Zealand Bug of the Year, and placed 19th out of 20 competing contenders. T. nigerrimus is endemic to New Zealand and can be found across the North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island.
