How does a female wood wasp lay her eggs?

A female wood wasp lays her eggs by inserting her ovipositor into the bark of trees. This specialized organ allows her to penetrate the hard surface of the bark, creating a suitable environment for her eggs. The bark provides protection from predators and environmental factors, increasing the chances of survival for the larvae once they hatch.

By using this method, wood wasps can target specific tree species that are ideal for their offspring, ensuring that the larvae have access to the right food sources once they emerge. This behavior is crucial for the reproductive success of the species, as it maximizes the likelihood that the larvae will thrive in their new environment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the reproductive strategy of female wood wasps. Simply dropping eggs on the ground would leave them vulnerable to predators and environmental hazards. Building a nest in the wood is not characteristic of wood wasps, as they typically lay eggs directly into the substrate rather than constructing nests. Mixing eggs with frass is also not a typical behavior for these wasps and does not provide a viable method for egg-laying or protection during the larval development stage.