Aleiodes stigmator
(Say, 1824)
Stigmata Mummy Wasp
Aleiodes stigmator is a in the , first described by Thomas Say in 1824. Like other members of the Aleiodes, it is a that develops inside living , eventually killing and mummifying its . The has been recorded in the northeastern United States, including Vermont. It belongs to a diverse genus containing over 100 described species, many of which are understudied tropical .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aleiodes stigmator: /əˈlaɪəˌdiːz ˈstɪɡmətɔːr/
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Identification
Members of the Aleiodes can be distinguished from other by their reduced with few , and their characteristic mummification of lepidopteran . Specific identification of A. stigmator requires examination of morphological details such as count, propodeal patterns, and coloration. The epithet 'stigmator' refers to distinctive stigmatal or markings.
Distribution
Northeastern United States; specifically recorded from Vermont and surrounding regions.
Diet
Larval development occurs inside living ( ); do not feed on tissues but may consume nectar or .
Life Cycle
Females oviposit into . The develops internally as a , allowing the host to continue feeding and growing. Upon completion of development, the larva exits the host and the host dies, becoming a hardened 'mummy.' The pupates within or attached to this mummy.
Ecological Role
Acts as a agent of in forest and agricultural .
Human Relevance
Contributes to natural suppression of lepidopteran pests; no direct economic importance documented.
Similar Taxa
- Aleiodes indiscretusSimilar size and range; distinguished by differences in color pattern and propodeal structure
- Aleiodes praetorOverlapping distribution; requires examination of and abdominal tergite sculpturing for separation