Tetracneminae
Howard, 1892
Tetracneminae is a of chalcid within the , established by Howard in 1892. Members are , primarily attacking () and other . The subfamily is distinguished by specific morphological features of the mesosoma and . Tetracnemines are significant in programs targeting agricultural and forestry pests.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tetracneminae: /ˌtɛtrəkˈnɛmini/
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Identification
Tetracneminae can be distinguished from other by the following features: mesosoma with a distinct prepectus visible laterally; with a reduced , often appearing as a short stub; postmarginal usually absent or highly reduced; stigmal vein with a distinct ; and hind often enlarged or modified. The is further characterized by a generally compact body form and reduced compared to other encyrtid subfamilies.
Images
Host Associations
Ecological Role
As of and other , Tetracneminae plays a significant role in regulating of these -feeding . This makes them important in agricultural and forest , particularly in contexts where scale insects reach pest status.
Human Relevance
Tetracneminae have been utilized in programs against . Their effectiveness in suppressing reduces reliance on chemical in systems.
Similar Taxa
- EncyrtinaeOther major of ; differs in (more complete ) and mesosomal structure (prepectus usually concealed or less distinct)
- Copidosominae with different associations (often or ) and typically different body proportions