Opiinae

Opiinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Opiinae: //ˈoʊpiˌaɪniː//

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Summary

Opiinae are a subfamily of braconid wasps with over 1300 described species, important for biological control of certain pest fly species.

Physical Characteristics

Small wasps, usually 1.5 - 5 mm in length, with inwardly pointing mandibles. Some species have an apparent cyclostome opening but are non-cyclostomes. The clypeus differs from cyclostomes, and the labrum is flat, not concave.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Alysiinae by endodont mandibles and non-cyclostome characteristics. Note the gap between the clypeus and mandibles when closed, and the flat labrum.

Habitat

Found worldwide; specific habitats vary but include areas where host Diptera are present.

Distribution

World-wide distribution, with approximately 2000 species recognized globally.

Diet

Larvae feed on larvae of various cyclorrhapous Diptera, especially from the families Agromyzidae and Tephritidae.

Life Cycle

Koinobiont endoparasitoids; females oviposit into host eggs or larvae, allowing host development until a puparium forms, at which point the host is killed by the wasp larva.

Reproduction

Oviposition occurs into host eggs or larvae, continuing development in the host until puparium formation.

Predators

Specific predators are not documented; other parasitoids may interact with them.

Ecosystem Role

Important biocontrol agents against fruit-infesting flies and leaf-mining agromyzids.

Economic Impact

Utilized in biocontrol programs to manage pests, particularly fruit flies and Agromyzidae species.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting during flight
  • Trapping using baited traps

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Ethanol preservation

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often confused with Alysiinae due to morphological similarities and the presence of a gap between mouthparts.

Tags

  • Opiinae
  • Braconidae
  • Parasitoid Wasps
  • Biocontrol
  • Diptera