Gravenhorstiini
Gravenhorstiini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
- Family: Ichneumonidae
- Subfamily: Anomaloninae
- Tribe: Gravenhorstiini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gravenhorstiini: /ɡrævɛnˈhɔrstiaɪˌni/
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Images
Summary
Gravenhorstiini is a tribe of parasitoid wasps belonging to the family Ichneumonidae, comprising approximately 185 species across 16 genera, all of which are parasitoids except for Anomalon. They are distinguished by their wing structure and head morphology, playing a crucial ecological role as natural pest controllers.
Physical Characteristics
Forewing with areolet open or closed; if open, the remaining vein is basal, opposite, or apical to vein 2m-cu by less than two-fifths length of remaining vein. Head in dorsal view with lateral ocellus separated from occipital carina by less than its largest diameter and occipital carina approximately level with ocellus.
Identification Tips
Wings should be checked for areolet condition and vein arrangement to aid in identification.
Habitat
Varies by species, generally occurs in terrestrial environments.
Distribution
Nearctica, with approximately 185 species reported across 16 genera.
Diet
Parasitoids that typically lay eggs in or on other insects, eventually leading to their host's demise.
Life Cycle
Undergoes a complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Typically involves parasitism where females lay eggs in host organisms.
Ecosystem Role
As parasitoids, they play a significant role in controlling pest populations.
Collecting Methods
- Net capture from vegetation
- Light traps
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Alcohol preservation
Misconceptions
Often confused with other wasp types due to similar morphology.
Tags
- Hymenoptera
- Wasps
- Parasites
- Ecosystem Services