Philolema

Cameron, 1908

Species Guides

1

Philolema is a of in the Eurytomidae. The genus includes that develop within the sacs of widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.), with Philolema latrodecti being the best-documented species. This species has been recorded as a agent of widow spiders in Hawaii and has established in French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, and Mexico following the spread of its spider .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Philolema: //ˌfɪloʊˈliːmə//

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Habitat

Associated with occupied by widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.), particularly where spider sacs are present. Laboratory rearing has been documented.

Distribution

Documented from French Polynesia (Tahiti, Moorea), the Cook Islands, and Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Also present in Hawaii where it has been used for . Distribution appears to follow that of its widow spider .

Host Associations

Life Cycle

Develops within the sacs of widow spiders. Specific details of developmental stages are not documented in available sources.

Behavior

have been observed perching on widow spider sacs. The is not aggressive toward humans.

Ecological Role

Acts as a agent of widow spider by parasitizing their sacs. In Tahiti, it was found to infest 31% of brown widow spider egg sacs, suggesting potential to limit spider population growth.

Human Relevance

Used intentionally as a agent for widow spiders in Hawaii. Its presence in French Polynesia and the Cook Islands is viewed positively as a natural limiting factor on the brown widow spider . Not considered harmful to humans.

Similar Taxa

More Details

Biological control significance

Researchers in French Polynesia highlighted the concurrent establishment of Philolema latrodecti as 'good news' when documenting the brown widow spider's arrival, emphasizing its potential role in natural suppression.

Sources and further reading