Eupelmidae

Eupelmidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eupelmidae: /juˈpɛlmɪdiː/

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Images

Summary

Eupelmidae is a family of parasitic wasps found globally, characterized by their elongated metallic bodies and unique behavior of arching their bodies when dead. They are notable for being primary parasitoids, particularly on beetle larvae, and include species that use a variety of hosts across different insect orders.

Physical Characteristics

Elongated metallic-colored body with a flat mesonotum, some species are wingless or have very short wings. They possess a long and stout mid-tibial spur and widely separated fore and hind-coxae. A medially concave mesonotum is characteristic, and they often arch their bodies upwards when dead.

Identification Tips

Relatively easy to separate from other Chalcidoidea by the possession of a medially concave mesonotum; some species exhibit variation in appearance.

Habitat

Found throughout the world in virtually all habitats.

Distribution

Global distribution, over 120 species distributed across 3 subfamilies in our area, and more than 900 species in 45 genera worldwide.

Diet

Larvae are primarily parasitoids on a wide range of host species including beetle larvae, with some parasitizing spiders and other insects across various orders such as Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Orthoptera.

Life Cycle

Details of life history vary; many larvae attack beetle larvae, while some are hyperparasites or attack host eggs.

Reproduction

Information on reproduction is limited, but generally involves oviposition into host species where larvae develop.

Predators

Limited direct predator information is available; they are more often hosts for other parasitoids.

Ecosystem Role

Serve as primary parasitoids, impacting populations of their host species, thereby playing a role in the regulation of pest species.

Economic Impact

Some species may be beneficial for pest control, though specific details regarding economic impact are not provided.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting
  • Trapping

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Slide mounting

Evolution

Subfamilies Calosotinae, Eupelminae, and Eusandalinae. Some genera were reclassified into the families Metapelmatidae and Neanastatidae in 2022.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some species are thought to be harmful, but they mainly serve as beneficial parasitoids in ecosystems.

Tags

  • Eupelmidae
  • parasitic wasps
  • Chalcidoidea
  • Hymenoptera