Monoctonus

Monoctonus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Monoctonus: //mɔˈnɔk.to.nus//

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Summary

Monoctonus is a genus of tiny parasitoid wasps in the subfamily Aphidiinae, which are known for their role as natural enemies of aphids. They exhibit unique morphological features and have a global distribution, primarily active in biocontrol of aphids.

Physical Characteristics

1.5-3.0 mm long; females possess a flattened, plowshare-shaped ovipositor sheath which is diagnostic of the genus.

Identification Tips

Monoctonus can be identified by its fore wing venation: a small gap at the posterior end of vein r-m, the lengths of veins r and r-m nearly equal, and vein 1cu-a often absent or spectral.

Habitat

Primarily found in various habitats where aphids are present.

Distribution

Alaska, Canada to Mexico and Chile; primarily found in the northern hemisphere; some species introduced elsewhere for biocontrol.

Diet

Koinobiont endoparasitoids that use aphids as hosts, both adult and immature stages.

Life Cycle

Pupation occurs inside the host (dead aphid) in most species; some species like Praon leave the hollowed shell and pupate externally in cocoon-like structures.

Reproduction

Females typically lay eggs inside aphid hosts, leading to the development of larvae that will eventually exit the host.

Ecosystem Role

Parasitoids that contribute to biological control of aphid populations.

Economic Impact

Several species have been utilized in biocontrol programs to manage pest aphid populations.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweeping
  • Using yellow sticky traps
  • Manual collection from host plants

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinned specimens
  • Slide mounts

Evolution

The Aphidiinae are considered a lineage within the Braconidae, suggesting a deep evolutionary history related to parasitism of aphids.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Monoctonus with other similar genera such as Aphidius due to their similar fore wing patterns.

Tags

  • Hymenoptera
  • Braconidae
  • Aphidiinae
  • parasitoids
  • biological control