Cuckoo Wasps

Chrysididae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Chrysidoidea
Family: Chrysididae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysididae: //krɪˈsɪdɪˌdiː//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Colocar alticola by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysura kyrae by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Mesitiopterus evansi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysis stenodyneri by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

The family Chrysididae, commonly known as cuckoo wasps, encompasses a diverse group of parasitoid or kleptoparasitic wasps known for their metallic luster and brood parasitic behavior. They often lay eggs in the nests of other solitary bees and wasps, leading to complex interactions within ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Chrysididae are distinguished by their shiny bodies, often exhibiting brilliant metallic colors due to structural coloration. Many species have flattened or concave lower abdomens.

Identification Tips

Look for their characteristic metallic colors and flattened abdomens. Members of the subfamily Chrysidinae can curl into a defensive ball when threatened.

Habitat

Chrysidids prefer dry areas, often found in sandy soils, deserts, and microhabitats with little vegetation. They typically rest on bare soil or dead wood where other solitary wasps have their nest holes.

Distribution

Worldwide, with the highest diversity in the western regions, including California, which is home to 166 species.

Diet

They are either kleptoparasitic, feeding on the provisions of host nests, or parasitoids that consume host larvae or eggs.

Life Cycle

The cuckoo wasps lay their eggs in the nests of other wasps or bees, where the larvae develop by consuming the host's food and sometimes the host itself.

Reproduction

Chrysidids exhibit brood parasitism, laying eggs in the nests of unrelated host species, including various wasp and bee types.

Ecosystem Role

Chrysidids play a significant role in controlling the populations of their hosts, contributing to ecosystem balance as kleptoparasites and parasitoids.

Cultural Significance

The name 'cuckoo wasp' references their brood parasitic behavior, similar to that of cuckoo birds.

Health Concerns

Unlike many other wasps, chrysidids cannot sting due to their modified ovipositor, making them safe to handle.

Evolution

The fossil record is sparse, with the oldest known fossils dating to the lower Aptian of Russia, and includes specimens from various amber deposits.

Misconceptions

It is commonly thought that cuckoo wasps can sting; however, their ovipositor is modified for laying eggs, preventing them from delivering a sting.