Enicospilus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Enicospilus: /ˌɛnɪˈkɒspɪləs/

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Summary

Enicospilus is a diverse genus of nocturnal ichneumonid wasps with approximately 700 described species serving as larval parasitoids of Saturniidae, characterized by their long bodies and legs, and found near lights during nighttime.

Physical Characteristics

Large ichneumonid wasps resembling crane flies, characterized by long legs and long, thin bodies, with two sets of wings.

Identification Tips

Look for the presence of two sets of wings; long slender body shape similar to crane flies can be misleading.

Habitat

Commonly found near lights at night; specific habitats include various environments where their host larvae are present.

Distribution

Found across eastern North America, with various species established in states from Massachusetts west to Illinois and south to Florida and California.

Diet

Larval parasitoids of Saturniidae larvae.

Life Cycle

Complete metamorphosis with egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages; larvae develop inside the host caterpillar.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs inside host larvae; the larvae then feed on the host.

Ecosystem Role

As parasitoids, they play a role in controlling populations of their host species, particularly Saturniidae caterpillars.

Collecting Methods

• Light trapping at night

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Pinning and drying

Similar Taxa

• Crane flies (Tipulidae)
• Other ichneumonid wasps

Misconceptions

Often confused with crane flies due to their appearance; however, they are distinct due to having two pairs of wings.

Tags

• Ichneumonid wasps
• Nocturnal insects
• Parasitoids
• Enicospilus