Aphid Mummy Wasps

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aphidiinae: /əˌfɪdiˈaɪniː/

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Summary

The Aphidiinae subfamily consists of small parasitoid wasps that target aphids as hosts for their larvae, playing a valuable role in biological control.

Physical Characteristics

Tiny elongate wasps, generally ~2.5 mm in length, with small, slender bodies.

Identification Tips

Examine for escape hole in mummified aphids after emergence; species can often be identified by their specific morphological features.

Habitat

Primarily found in temperate regions, especially in the northern hemisphere; habitats include areas where aphids thrive.

Distribution

Worldwide, with a greater diversity in the northern hemisphere.

Diet

Koinobiont endoparasitoids feeding on aphids; larvae develop inside aphids.

Life Cycle

Larvae develop inside aphid hosts, pupating either within the dead aphid or exiting to form a cocoon.

Reproduction

Most species exhibit koinobiont endoparasitism; fertilized females lay eggs inside active aphid hosts.

Ecosystem Role

Act as natural control agents of aphid populations in various ecosystems.

Economic Impact

Some species are used in biological control programs to manage aphid pests of crops and gardens.

Collecting Methods

• Netting adult wasps around aphid-infested plants
• Using vacuum collectors
• Setting out yellow sticky traps

Preservation Methods

• Pinning specimens with labels
• Ethanol preservation for molecular studies

Evolution

Aphidiinae are a lineage within the Braconidae family, often treated separately as Aphidiidae but are now classified under the Braconidae.

Similar Taxa

• Rogadinae (another subfamily of Braconidae)

Misconceptions

Some may confuse them with other parasitic wasps or be unaware of their beneficial role in pest control.

Tags

• Aphidiinae
• Parasitoid wasps
• Biological control
• Aphids
• Braconidae