Ichneumonini

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
Family: Ichneumonidae
Subfamily: Ichneumoninae
Tribe: Ichneumonini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ichneumonini: /ɪkˌnjuːˈmɒnɪnaɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Trogus pennator wasp patuxent research refuge 9.4.21 DSC 7529 by lwolfartist. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Parasitic Wasp (33845607134) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Shaw et al 2015 Figs 1-4 by Mark Robert Shaw, Pieter Kan, Brigitte Kan-van Limburg Stirum. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Red Ichneumon (27881688170) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Cratichneumon w-album 7947137 by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Trogus lapidator by Tereshkin. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Summary

Ichneumonini is a diverse tribe of ichneumon wasps known for their ecological role as parasitoids, contributing significantly to pest management in various ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Ichneumonini are characterized by their distinct dorsoposterior faces of the propodeum.

Identification Tips

Look for key identifying features in the propodeum, which helps distinguish species within this tribe.

Habitat

Found in diverse habitats, primarily where their host organisms are located, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas.

Distribution

Approximately 567 species in 61 genera north of Mexico; around 286 genera worldwide.

Diet

Larvae are typically parasitic on various hosts, including other insect larvae, while adults usually feed on nectar.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with females laying eggs in or on host organisms.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves females laying eggs inside or on the surface of host insects, providing a food source for the developing larvae.

Predators

Ichneumonini are preyed upon by various birds and other predators of insects.

Ecosystem Role

Important as biocontrol agents, helping regulate host insect populations.

Economic Impact

Can be beneficial in agriculture due to their role in pest control, although some species may have negative impacts if they become pests themselves.

Collecting Methods

Trapping using pheromone lures
Hand collecting
Pan traps

Preservation Methods

Ethanol preservation
Pinning
Carton preservation

Evolution

Ichneumonini have evolved primarily as parasitoids, adapting to various ecological roles within their ecosystems.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Ichneumon wasps are often confused with harmful wasps; most species are harmless to humans and beneficial for pest control.