Aleiodes stigmator
(Say, 1824)
Stigmata Mummy Wasp
Aleiodes stigmator is a in the Braconidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. Like other members of the Aleiodes, it is a koinobiont endoparasitoid that develops inside living caterpillars, 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 braconid wasps by their reduced wing venation with few closed , and their characteristic mummification of lepidopteran . Specific identification of A. stigmator requires examination of morphological details such as segment count, propodeal patterns, and coloration. The epithet 'stigmator' refers to distinctive stigmatal or punctate markings.
Distribution
Northeastern United States; specifically recorded from Vermont and surrounding regions.
Diet
Larval development occurs inside living caterpillars (Lepidoptera larvae); do not feed on tissues but may consume nectar or honeydew.
Life Cycle
Females oviposit into caterpillar . The larva develops internally as a koinobiont endoparasitoid, 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 caterpillar 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 wing venation and abdominal tergite sculpturing for separation