Hoplismenus

Hoplismenus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hoplismenus: //hɒˈplɪzmɪnəs//

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

Images

Hoplismenus praeruptus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Hoplismenus praeruptus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Hoplismenus praeruptus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Hoplismenus praeruptus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Hoplismenus rutilis tenuis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Hoplismenus rutilis tenuis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Hoplismenus is a genus of parasitoid wasps that targets caterpillars, primarily of the Nymphalidae family. They are found across Europe and North America and play an integral role in pest management by controlling caterpillar populations.

Physical Characteristics

Parasitoid wasps with varying body sizes and forms.

Identification Tips

Look for characteristics of the Ichneumonidae family, particularly in body shape and ovipositor length.

Habitat

Typically found in environments where host insects (particularly Rhopalocera) are present such as meadows, forests, and gardens.

Distribution

Species are distributed across Europe and North America.

Diet

Adults feed primarily on nectar, while larvae develop inside host caterpillars (typically Nymphalidae and Satyridae).

Life Cycle

They undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult; the larvae are parasitoids and develop within a host.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs inside or on the host caterpillar, allowing larvae to consume the host.

Predators

Adult wasps may be preyed upon by larger insects, birds, and some mammals.

Ecosystem Role

They play a crucial role in controlling host insect populations, acting as biological control agents.

Economic Impact

Beneficial as they help manage pest populations; exact economic impact is not well-documented.

Collecting Methods

  • Using insect nets to catch adults in flowering areas
  • Trapping using bait

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning specimens for collection
  • Preserving in ethanol or other alcohol solutions

Evolution

Part of the diverse family Ichneumonidae, believed to have evolved specialized habits for parasitism in specific host species.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other types of wasps; some may believe they are harmful to humans when they are beneficial.

Tags

  • Hymenoptera
  • parasitoid
  • wasps
  • Ichneumonidae
  • biodiversity