Chrysididae
- Pronunciation
- /krih-SID-ih-dee/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Chrysidid
- Plural
- Chrysidids
Definition
A family of small, metallic wasps known as cuckoo wasps. They are parasitic on other insects, especially Hymenoptera.
Etymology
Greek 'chrysos', meaning 'gold', and 'eidos', meaning 'form'.
Example
Chrysididae larvae develop in the nests of other insects, feeding on their eggs or larvae.
Related Terms
- Parasitic wasps
- Hymenoptera
- Cleptoparasitism
Usage Notes
Chrysididae are often brightly colored and have a distinctive metallic sheen.