The genus is present worldwide with the exception of South America.[2] These wasps are similar to the related sand wasps (Ammophila), but they have a much shorter petiole and the abdomen is slightly stronger.[3] The thorax bears a small white patch. [citation needed]
The females lay their nests in the sand. They normally incubate in large, hairless caterpillars of moths (Noctuidae).[3]