Pistachio seed wasps

Pronunciation
/pi-STAH-shee-oh seed wahsps/
Category
Entomology
Singular
Pistachio seed wasp
Plural
Pistachio seed wasps

Definition

A term encompassing two species of parasitic wasps (Eurytoma plotnikovi and Megastigmus pistaciae) that infest pistachio fruits, considered pests due to their destructive impact on the crop.

Etymology

Example

The presence of pistachio seed wasps can be detected by examining infested fruits for signs of infestation, such as mummified fruits and exit holes.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

The term 'pistachio seed wasps' is a general term for both species, while specific names like Eurytoma plotnikovi and Megastigmus pistaciae are used when identifying the exact species.