Heteropelma datanae

Members of the genus Heteropelma can be distinguished from other ichneumonid genera by the laterally compressed metasoma, a trait reflected in the genus name (Greek: hetero- 'different', pelma 'sole of foot' or 'base'). Specific identification of H. datanae requires examination of detailed morphological characters including wing venation and antennal structure. The species is likely to be medium-sized with typical ichneumonid features: long, multi-segmented antennae, slender body, and an elongated ovipositor in females.

North America. The species has been documented across the United States based on iNaturalist observations (150 records). Specific range boundaries are not well documented in published literature.

• Datana - parasitoidThe specific epithet 'datanae' indicates association with this moth genus (Notodontidae). The wasp likely parasitizes larvae of Datana species, which are known defoliators of various trees and shrubs.

As a parasitoid wasp, Heteropelma datanae contributes to population regulation of its host moths. The genus Datana includes several species that are occasional pests of ornamental and forest trees, suggesting potential role in natural biological control.

Indirect relevance through potential biological control of Datana moth populations. Datana species can cause defoliation of walnut, hickory, and other trees; the wasp may help suppress outbreak populations naturally.

• Other Heteropelma speciesShare the compressed metasoma and general body plan; require detailed examination of morphological characters for separation.
• Generalist ichneumonid parasitoids of LepidopteraMany ichneumonids share similar size range and parasitoid lifestyle; Heteropelma distinguished by genus-diagnostic characters including metasomal compression.

• Ichneumonidae
• parasitoid
• Lepidoptera host
• North America
• biological control

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life