Perilitini
Genus Guides
2Perilitini is a small tribe of braconid wasps in the Microgastrinae. Members are koinobiont endoparasitoids of lepidopteran larvae, primarily associated with in the Noctuidae (owlet moths). The tribe is characterized by reduced wing venation and a compact body form. Taxonomic boundaries within Perilitini have been historically unstable, with some transferred to or from related tribes based on molecular phylogenetic studies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Perilitini: //pɛrɪˈlaɪtaɪni//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Perilitini can be distinguished from other Microgastrinae tribes by the combination of: reduced forewing venation with the areolet (second submarginal ) often absent or reduced; a short, compact metasoma; and a pronotum that does not extend to the tegulae. The tarsal claws are simple or with a small basal lobe. These features require microscopic examination and comparison with reference specimens for reliable identification.
Diet
Larval development occurs internally within living lepidopteran larvae; do not feed.
Host Associations
- Noctuidae - primary koinobiont endoparasitoid of larvae
Life Cycle
Koinobiont endoparasitoid: are laid inside living larvae, larvae develop while host continues feeding and growing, occurs from late-instar host or host pupa.
Ecological Role
agent of noctuid in natural and agricultural systems.
Human Relevance
Potential utility in programs targeting pest noctuid , though not widely commercialized.
Similar Taxa
- MicrogastriniAlso in Microgastrinae with reduced wing venation; Microgastrini generally have more elongate metasoma and different ovipositor proportions
- Dolichogenidea (formerly in Perilitini)Some historically placed in Perilitini have been moved to other tribes based on molecular data; identification requires current taxonomic references