Aphidiina
Aphidiina
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
- Family: Braconidae
- Subfamily: Aphidiinae
- Tribe: Aphidiini
- Subtribe: Aphidiina
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aphidiina: /æ.fɪˈdaɪ.ɪ.nə/
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Summary
Aphidiinae is a subfamily of parasitoid wasps that specifically parasitize aphids. They are notable in biological control efforts against aphid pests. With around 400 species in 50 genera, they are found globally, especially in temperate regions.
Physical Characteristics
Aphidiinae are tiny parasitoid wasps, measuring 2 to 3 mm in length.
Identification Tips
Identification can be based on their small size and the morphological structures resembling those in the family Braconidae.
Habitat
Aphidiinae are found worldwide, primarily in the northern hemisphere, in habitats where aphids are present.
Distribution
Global distribution with a primary presence in the northern hemisphere; introduced species in various regions for biocontrol.
Diet
As parasitoids, adult Aphidiinae do not feed, but their larvae develop inside aphid hosts, feeding on their tissues.
Life Cycle
Aphidiinae are koinobiont endoparasitoids. Their larvae develop within aphid hosts, and pupation occurs either inside the host or externally in a cocoon depending on the species.
Reproduction
Mating occurs after emerging from their host; females lay eggs inside or near aphids.
Predators
Aphidiinae likely face predation from larger insects and parasitoids, but specific predators are not mentioned.
Ecosystem Role
They play a role in regulating aphid populations in various ecosystems and are important in biological control programs.
Economic Impact
Many species are used in biological control to manage aphid populations, which can have significant economic implications for agriculture.
Collecting Methods
- Net sweeping
- Yellow sticky traps
- Direct sampling from aphid-infested plants
Preservation Methods
- Drying
- Alcohol preservation
- Pin mounting
Evolution
Aphidiinae have often been treated as a separate family but are recognized as a lineage within the Braconidae. They display diverse evolutionary traits, particularly in relation to their parasitic life history.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
They are sometimes confused with other small parasitic wasps, leading to incorrect identification in the field.
Tags
- Aphidiinae
- parasitoid wasps
- biological control
- agriculture
- Hymenoptera