Aleiodes nolophanae

(Ashmead, 1889)

Aleiodes nolophanae is a braconid described by Ashmead in 1889. It parasitizes caterpillars of the green cloverworm (Hypena scabra, Noctuidae). Research demonstrates that plant significantly affects parasitoid phenotype: wasps reared from hosts feeding on alfalfa exhibit larger body mass and, in some , greater longevity compared to those from soybean-fed hosts. This geographic variation in plant-mediated effects has implications for applications.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aleiodes nolophanae: //ˌæ.liˈoʊ.diz ˌnoʊ.ləˈfæn.iː//

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Identification

As a member of the Aleiodes, this likely exhibits the characteristic 'mummy-making' trait of the genus, where parasitized caterpillars form hardened, mummified remains. Distinction from congenerics and from the sympatric Cotesia marginiventris requires examination of morphological features not detailed in available sources.

Diet

; develops internally within caterpillar . Specifically associated with green cloverworm (Hypena scabra) larvae.

Host Associations

Hypena scabra - primary Green cloverworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae); develops internally within caterpillar

Behavior

Oviposits into caterpillar ; internal development leads to host mummification typical of Aleiodes .

Ecological Role

agent; influenced by plant chemistry and quality. strategy contrasts with approaches in related .

Human Relevance

Studied for potential. Research indicates plant affects , with geographic variation in these effects that influences efficacy in pest management programs.

Similar Taxa

Cotesia marginiventrisSympatric braconid of the same (Hypena scabra); strategy contrasts with strategy of A. nolophanae, with differential responses to host plant species
Other Aleiodes speciesCongeneric mummy-making braconids; distinguished by associations and morphological features

More Details

Host plant mediation

Body mass of A. nolophanae is significantly larger when reared from on alfalfa versus soybean, an effect consistent across three study sites. This plant-mediated phenotypic plasticity is more pronounced and geographically consistent than in the Cotesia marginiventris.

Geographic variation

Effects of plant on longevity and rates vary geographically; in Prince George's County, Maryland, lived longer and parasitism rates were higher on alfalfa, but these patterns did not hold at all sites.