Rileyinae
Ashmead, 1904
Rileyinae is a of small within (), comprising primarily associated with and -formers. Members include the Neorileya, known as of eggs from diverse (, , ) and even . The subfamily also includes Gatesina, a genus that parasitizes Eurytominae gall-formers in fruits of Myrtaceae. Rileyinae are typically minute (2-3 mm), solitary, and part of the 'micro-' fauna.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rileyinae: //ˈraɪliː.ɪˌnaɪ//
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Identification
Distinguishing Rileyinae from other requires examination of morphological characters, particularly those related to -association and relationships. The Gatesina has conspicuous that supports its separation from related genera. Close phylogenetic relationship to Neorileya has been established through morphological and molecular analyses.
Images
Distribution
Neotropical region, with Neorileya ranging from central California to Argentina. Colombia specifically documented for Gatesina colombiana.
Host Associations
- Coreidae - of including Thasus neocalifornicus (giant mesquite )
- Pentatomidae - of
- Reduviidae - of
- Tettigoniidae - of , taxonomically distant from other known
- Eurytominae - of -formersindirect association via of -formers in Myrtaceae fruits; Gatesina
Life Cycle
occurs entirely within ; development results in host death.
Behavior
Solitary lifestyle; females locate and oviposit into of .
Ecological Role
agent; regulates of pests and -forming through activity.
Human Relevance
Potential value in for agricultural pests, particularly () and .
Similar Taxa
- EncyrtidaeBoth include ; Rileyinae () distinguished by morphological characters and phylogenetic placement
- other Eurytomidae subfamiliesRileyinae specifically associated with and -former parasitism; other may have different relationships