Mesocoelini
Genus Guides
2Mesocoelini is a tribe of within the Agathidinae of the Braconidae . Members are koinobiont endoparasitoids, meaning they allow their to continue developing after oviposition. The tribe is distinguished by morphological features of the mesosoma and wing venation patterns. Mesocoelini are primarily associated with lepidopteran hosts.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Mesocoelini: /ˌmɛsəʊˈsiːlaɪnaɪ/
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Identification
Mesocoelini can be distinguished from other Agathidinae tribes by the presence of a distinct longitudinal carina on the mesoscutum and reduced wing venation with the second submarginal relatively small. The propodeum typically lacks a complete areola. These features separate them from the larger tribe Agathidini, which has more elaborate propodeal and different wing venation.
Life Cycle
As koinobiont endoparasitoids, females oviposit into larvae, and the larva develops internally while the host continues to feed and grow. The wasp emerges from the host pupa or late instar larva, killing the host in the process.
Ecological Role
Mesocoelini function as agents by parasitizing lepidopteran larvae, potentially regulating of herbivorous caterpillars in various .
Human Relevance
Some have been investigated for use in programs against agricultural and forestry pests, though specific applications are limited compared to more studied braconid groups.
Similar Taxa
- AgathidiniLarger and more diverse tribe within Agathidinae; differs in propodeal and wing venation patterns, with Agathidini typically showing more complex propodeal areolation and different second submarginal proportions.
- CremnoptiniAnother Agathidinae tribe; Cremnoptini generally have more elongated bodies and different ovipositor proportions relative to body length.
More Details
Taxonomic History
The tribal classification within Agathidinae has undergone revision, with Mesocoelini historically treated as a subtribe or synonymized with other groups before being reinstated as a valid tribe based on phylogenetic and morphological analyses.