Vanhorniidae

Definition

A small family of parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Proctotrupoidea) containing the single genus Vanhornia. These minute wasps are specialist parasitoids of beetle larvae in the family Eucnemidae (false click beetles), with species distributed across the Holarctic and into Southeast Asia.

Etymology

Named for the type genus Vanhornia; etymology of genus name not specified in sources.

Example

Vanhornia eucnemidarum, the type species of Vanhorniidae, attacks larvae of Eucnemidae in decaying wood across North America.

Related Terms

• Proctotrupoidea
• Parasitoid
• Eucnemidae
• Vanhornia
• Hymenoptera

Usage Notes

Vanhorniidae is among the smallest hymenopteran families in terms of diversity, with only four described species. The family is distinguished from other proctotrupoid families by its host specificity on Eucnemidae rather than other beetle families or insect groups. Specimens are rarely collected due to the concealed habits of both the wasps and their wood-boring hosts.