Cuckoo Wasps & allies

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysidoidea: /ˌkrɪsɪˈdɔɪdiə/

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Summary

Chrysidoidea is a large superfamily of wasps that are primarily parasitoids or cleptoparasites, with a life history that varies among families, and they are notable for their small size and cosmopolitan distribution.

Physical Characteristics

Most species are small (7 mm or less), almost never exceeding 15 mm.

Identification Tips

Look for small, metallic-colored wasps, many with a distinctive shape; identification may require close examination due to size.

Habitat

Various habitats, as they are cosmopolitan and found around other insects in diverse environments.

Distribution

Cosmopolitan, with a presence in various regions around the world.

Diet

Parasitoids and cleptoparasites of other insects.

Life Cycle

In families like Dryinidae and Embolemidae, the wasp larva begins life inside the host, later forming a sac (thylacium) that protrudes from the host's body.

Reproduction

Typically, they reproduce through parasitism or kleptoparasitism, with female wasps laying eggs in or near host insects.

Ecosystem Role

Important role as parasitoids, helping to control populations of other insects.

Health Concerns

Some species can sting, but their venom is harmless to humans.

Collecting Methods

• Netting from vegetation or areas with host insects
• Baiting with host insects

Preservation Methods

• Drying specimens in a cool, dark environment
• Mounting on pins with labels

Evolution

Considered to be the basal taxon within the Aculeata.

Similar Taxa

• Bethylidae
• Chrysididae
• Dryinidae
• Embolemidae
• Plumariidae
• Sclerogibbidae
• Scolebythidae

Misconceptions

Despite their ability to sting, the venom is generally harmless to humans.

Tags

• Hymenoptera
• Chrysidoidea
• Cuckoo Wasps
• parasitoids
• cleptoparasites