Rhygoplitis
Mason, 1981
Rhygoplitis is a of braconid wasps described by Mason in 1981. The genus contains at least four described distributed in the New World. As a member of Braconidae, these are , though specific associations for this genus remain poorly documented. The genus is distinguished from related braconid genera by particular morphological features of the ovipositor and wing venation.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhygoplitis: /rɪˈɡɒplɪtɪs/
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Identification
within Rhygoplitis can be distinguished by characteristics of the ovipositor, which is described as aciculate (needle-like) in the type species R. aciculatus. Specific diagnostic features separating this from other braconid genera require examination of wing venation patterns and genitalic structures. The four described species differ in details of coloration, body proportions, and geographic distribution.
Distribution
New World, with records from the Caribbean (St. Vincent) and North America. The specific localities for individual include: R. aciculatus and R. sanctivincenti described from St. Vincent; R. choreuti from the United States; and R. terminalis from an unspecified locality.
Ecological Role
As members of Braconidae, in this function as , though specific records are not documented in available sources. Braconid wasps generally contribute to of their hosts.
Similar Taxa
- Other Braconidae generaRhygoplitis is distinguished by Mason (1981) based on ovipositor and other structural features, but precise differentiating characters require taxonomic knowledge.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Mason in 1981. Two of the four were originally described by Ashmead in 1900, one by Viereck in 1912, and one by Gahan in 1912, and were subsequently transferred to Rhygoplitis.