Licrooides umbilicatus
Gibson, 1989
Licrooides umbilicatus is a of parasitic wasp in the Eupelmidae, Eusandalinae. The Licrooides belongs to a group of eupelmids with specialized jumping abilities using their mesothoracic legs. Like other members of Eupelminae, this species possesses modified middle leg musculature that enables rapid escape locomotion. The species was described by Gibson in 1989 and is known from scattered records in the southern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Licrooides umbilicatus: //lɪˈkroʊ.iːdz ˌʌmbɪlɪˈkeɪtəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, Georgia, and Texas in the United States.
Behavior
As a member of Eupelminae, this is expected to share the 's characteristic jumping powered by the middle legs. The mesothoracic segments are modified to store and release tension, propelling the away from threats. This causes a characteristic contorted posture in dead specimens due to muscle shrinkage.
More Details
Taxonomic placement
Placed in Eusandalinae rather than Eupelminae, though the source material discusses Eupelminae traits. The jumping described for Eupelminae may not apply to this .