Yelicones nigromarginatus
Quicke & Kruft, 1995
Yelicones nigromarginatus is a of braconid in the Rogadinae, described from specimens collected in Vermont, USA. The species name refers to the dark marginal coloration of the wings. Like other members of Yelicones, it is presumed to be a koinobiont endoparasitoid of lepidopteran larvae, though specific records for this species remain undocumented. It is one of approximately 50 described species in the Yelicones, which occurs primarily in the Neotropical and Nearctic regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Yelicones nigromarginatus: /jɛlɪˈkoʊniz ˌnɪɡroʊmɑrdʒɪˈneɪtəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The specific epithet nigromarginatus (black-margined) indicates the is characterized by dark pigmentation along the wing margins. Members of Yelicones can be distinguished from related rogadine by the combination of a closed second submarginal in the forewing, a pronotum that does not reach the tegula, and the presence of a distinct, often curved, fore tibial spur. Y. nigromarginatus specifically can be separated from by the extent and intensity of the dark wing marginal banding, though precise diagnostic features require examination of the original description.
Distribution
Known from Vermont, USA (type locality). GBIF records indicate additional occurrences in the United States, though specific localities beyond Vermont are not detailed in available sources.
Ecological Role
As a member of the Rogadinae, Y. nigromarginatus likely functions as a koinobiont endoparasitoid of caterpillars (Lepidoptera larvae). Koinobiont allow their to continue developing after oviposition, eventually killing the host when the larva completes its development. This parasitoid lifestyle contributes to regulation of lepidopteran in forest and agricultural .
Similar Taxa
- Yelicones americanusOccurs in the same geographic region (eastern North America) and shares general wing venation patterns; distinguished by differences in wing coloration and body proportions
- Other Yelicones speciesApproximately 50 exist, many with overlapping distributions; accurate identification requires examination of wing pigmentation patterns, body coloration, and male genitalia
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Quicke and Kruft in 1995 based on material from Vermont, USA. The Yelicones was revised by van Achterberg in 1979 and subsequently expanded with numerous new descriptions through the 1990s and 2000s.
Research needs
No records, behavioral observations, or detailed biological studies have been published for this . Future research priorities include host identification, verification of the koinobiont endoparasitoid strategy, and clarification of the full geographic range within North America.