Perilampid Wasps

Perilampidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Chalcidoidea
Family: Perilampidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Perilampidae: //ˌpɛrɪˈlæmpɪdiː//

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Summary

Perilampidae is a small family of wasps known for their metallic appearance and role as hyperparasitoids, primarily targeting the larvae of other parasitoids. They are characterized by their robust and sculptured body forms and unique larval development stages.

Physical Characteristics

Brilliantly metallic appearance (especially blue or green), with robust mesosomae and a small, triangular metasomae. Strongly sculptured with a broad, disc-like prothorax and multidigitate labrum.

Identification Tips

Look for their metallic coloration and specific body shape, particularly the robust mesosoma and triangular metasoma. Multidigitate labrum is also a distinguishing feature.

Habitat

Found in various habitats where their hosts are present, including areas where wood-boring beetles may be found.

Distribution

Almost 300 species in 15 genera worldwide, with 36 species across 6 genera in the specified area.

Diet

Most are hyperparasitoids targeting endoparasitoid larvae of Tachinidae or Ichneumonoidea.

Life Cycle

Eggs are often deposited on foliage, with larvae developing as planidia that mount secondary hosts.

Reproduction

Eggs are deposited on or near hosts with larvae that become hyperparasitic.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in the control of host populations by parasitizing them, particularly as hyperparasitoids.

Evolution

Closely related to Eucharitidae, Chrysolampidae, and Eutrichosomatidae.