Cremastinae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
Family: Ichneumonidae
Subfamily: Cremastinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cremastinae: //krɛˈmæs.tɪˌniː//

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Summary

Cremastinae is a worldwide subfamily of parasitic wasps within the family Ichneumonidae, known for their role as endoparasitoids of lepidopteran and, occasionally, coleopteran larvae.

Habitat

Cremastinae are typically found in varied habitats where their host larvae live, including tunnels, leaf rolls, buds, and galls.

Distribution

Worldwide, with 325 species in 12 genera north of Mexico, primarily in the genera Temelucha (138 spp.) and Cremastus (95 spp.).

Diet

Endoparasitoids of Lepidoptera larvae, and sometimes Coleoptera larvae.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role as natural biological control agents by parasitizing pest species of butterflies and moths.