Liopteridae
Liopteridae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Cynipoidea
- Family: Liopteridae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Liopteridae: //laɪ.ˌɒp.təˈrɪ.diː//
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Summary
Liopteridae is a diverse family of parasitoid wasps predominantly found in tropical regions, characterized by their wood-boring habits and distinct abdominal morphology.
Physical Characteristics
Wood-boring parasitoid wasps with a petiolate abdomen.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinct petiolate abdomen characteristic of this family.
Habitat
Primarily tropical and subtropical regions, with concentrations in the African Tropics.
Distribution
Worldwide, with significantly more diversity in the Old World tropics.
Diet
Parasitoids, with larval development inside host organisms.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages; larvae develop inside the host.
Reproduction
Typically involves laying eggs inside or on the host organism, which provides nourishment for the developing larvae.
Ecosystem Role
Role as parasitoids helps control the populations of host species, including wood-boring insects.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults
- Trapping with pheromones
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning specimens
Evolution
Diverse evolutionary lineage with adaptations for parasitism and wood-boring habits.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with other wasps due to their parasitoid nature.
Tags
- parasitoid wasps
- Insecta
- Hymenoptera
- biodiversity