Cynipoidea

Definition

A superfamily of small to minute hymenopteran wasps characterized by reduced wing venation, a short or absent petiole, and frequent fusion of metasomal segments. The group includes both phytophagous gall-formers—most familiar to naturalists—and a larger, less conspicuous assemblage of parasitoids and hyperparasitoids that attack other insects or parasitoid larvae. Adults are typically glossy, dark, and smooth-bodied with somewhat compressed abdomens.

Etymology

From Cynips, the type genus of gall wasps (from Greek kyn-, dog, alluding to the dog-rose, Rosa canina, host of the type species), + -oidea, superfamily suffix.

Example

The Cynipoidea include the widespread gall wasp family Cynipidae, whose members induce characteristically shaped galls on oaks and roses, as well as the Figitidae, many of which are internal parasitoids of Diptera.

Related Terms

• Hymenoptera
• Cynipidae
• Figitidae
• gall
• Parasitoid
• hyperparasitoid
• petiole
• metasoma
• wing venation

Usage Notes

The superfamily is taxonomically stable but family-level composition has varied historically; current classifications recognize seven extant families. The ecological dominance of parasitoid lineages over gall-formers is frequently underappreciated in field guides. Cynipoid wasps are distinguished from other Apocrita by their characteristic 'cynipoid petiole' (broad, short, or absent) and reduced wing venation with a closed cell below the stigma.