Chrysoplatycerus splendens
(Howard, 1888)
Chrysoplatycerus splendens is a of parasitic wasp in the Encyrtidae, described by Howard in 1888. It belongs to a of chalcidoid wasps that are known of scale insects and other hemipteran pests. The species has been documented from Canada (Ontario, Quebec) and Hawaii. Like other encyrtids, it likely plays a role in of pest , though specific records for this species are not well documented in the available literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chrysoplatycerus splendens: //ˌkriː.soʊ.plæˈtɪ.sə.rəs ˈsplɛn.dɛnz//
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Identification
Within the Chrysoplatycerus, C. splendens can be distinguished from such as C. ferrisi and C. flavicollis by features of the and mesosoma. The name "splendens" suggests a shining or lustrous appearance, though specific diagnostic characters require examination of type material. Identification to species level typically requires slide-mounted specimens and reference to original descriptions.
Distribution
Canada (Ontario, Quebec); Hawaii, United States. Records from the UCR Encyrtidae collection indicate presence in both Nearctic and Pacific regions.
Ecological Role
Presumed , likely attacking scale insects (Coccoidea) or related Hemiptera based on -level of Encyrtidae. The UCR collection notes that many specimens have records not yet reported in scientific literature.
Human Relevance
Member of a widely used in programs. The UCR Encyrtidae collection contains voucher specimens from biological control projects conducted by California entomologists, though specific involvement of C. splendens in such projects is not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Chrysoplatycerus ferrisiCongeneric with overlapping distribution; distinguished by antennal structure and coloration
- Chrysoplatycerus flavicollisCongeneric originally described from South America; differs in and thoracic coloration
More Details
Type specimen information
Original description by Howard (1888); type locality and depository require verification
Collection history
Represented in the UCR Encyrtidae collection, one of the largest Encyrtidae collections in the world, with specimens on both points and slides