Pteromalid Wasps
Pteromalidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Chalcidoidea
- Family: Pteromalidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pteromalidae: /ˌtɛrəˈmælɪdiː/
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Summary
Pteromalidae is a large family of metallic wasps known primarily for their parasitic behaviors, involved in biological control of other insect populations. Following recent taxonomic research, the family was redefined, now containing 8 subfamilies with a diverse array of genera and species, found globally.
Physical Characteristics
Generally metallic, body size varies from 1-48 mm, body build ranges from slender to robust, with five-segmented tarsi; antennae have 8 to 13 segments, typically having a distinct speculum and elongated marginal vein in the fore wing.
Identification Tips
Pteromalidae can be identified by their distinct five-segmented tarsi and their characteristic metallic color. Key features include the structure of the antennae and the wing vein formations.
Habitat
Found throughout the world in virtually all habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
Distribution
Globally distributed.
Diet
Predominantly parasitoids of other insects, with some species exhibiting predatory behavior.
Life Cycle
Includes both solitary and gregarious species, with varied life strategies such as ectoparasitism and endoparasitism.
Reproduction
Varies across species; can be solitary or gregarious, involving multiple parasitoid strategies, including hyperparasitoidism.
Ecosystem Role
Essential biological control agents that regulate pest populations, often targeting destructive pests such as leafminers.
Economic Impact
Many species are used in biological control, specifically against agricultural pests, thus impacting crop health and yield positively.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults from foliage
- Using traps baited with host insects
- Collecting by hand from infested plants
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol
- Drying specimens
- Pinned specimens for taxonomic study
Evolution
Historically viewed as a polyphyletic group, recent research has led to the reclassification into 24 distinct families based on molecular and morphological data.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Pteromalidae was previously viewed as an artificial, homogeneous group; contemporary studies reveal its complexity and multiple origins.
Tags
- wasps
- Pteromalidae
- biological control
- parasitoids
- chalcidoids