Embolemidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Embolemidae: /ˌɛm.boʊˈlɛm.ɪˌdiː/

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Summary

Embolemidae is a family of small solitary parasitoid wasps, characterized by their parasitic lifecycle involving planthopper nymphs and their ant-mimicking wingless females.

Physical Characteristics

Embolemidae are small solitary parasitoid wasps, with females being wingless and males having wings. Females are typically ant mimics.

Identification Tips

Easily identifiable by their wingless females, which often reside in ant nests or under stones. Males can be identified by their wings and later emergence during the season.

Habitat

Commonly found in temperate regions, particularly in grasslands, pastures, and ant nests. They have also been located under stones and within small mammal burrows.

Distribution

Worldwide, with particular representation in the Nearctic and Palearctic regions.

Diet

Parasites on planthopper nymphs, particularly from the families Achilidae and Cixiidae.

Life Cycle

Females overwinter as adults, while males emerge later in the season. Female larvae develop within the host nymphs.

Reproduction

Females lay their eggs within the nymphs of planthoppers, where the larvae then develop.

Ecosystem Role

As parasitoids, Embolemidae play a role in controlling planthopper populations within their ecosystems.

Collecting Methods

• Netting from vegetation near ant nests
• Capture using direct observation

Preservation Methods

• Alcohol preservation
• Drying and pinning

Evolution

Some debate exists regarding the classification of the genus Ampulicomorpha, now generally considered a junior synonym of Embolemus.

Similar Taxa

• Chrysididae
• Ichneumonidae

Misconceptions

Misunderstood as harmful insects due to their association with ants; however, they do not pose a threat to humans or pets.

Tags

• wasps
• parasitoids
• Entomology
• Embolemidae
• Hymenoptera