Gelis
Thunberg, 1827
Species Guides
1Gelis is a of ichneumon wasps in the Ichneumonidae, containing at least 270 described . The genus is characterized by small, often wingless females that are of various . Some species have been documented attacking spiders, including ant-eating spiders in the genus Zodarion. The genus shows considerable diversity in form and across its species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gelis: /ˈɡɛlɪs/
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Images
Distribution
Distribution records exist from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Vermont (USA), and other parts of the United States. The has a broad geographic range with documented across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Host Associations
- Zodarion styliferum - Females attack spiders in their igloo-shaped stone retreats, penetrating the walls with long ovipositors. Larvae feed on the immobilized spider juveniles.
- Zodarion (genus) - Multiple in this -eating spider are attacked by Gelis .
Behavior
Females of at least some are wingless and active on the ground. females attack during daylight when the hosts are inactive in their shelters. The larva of G. apterus makes a cocoon inside the spider host's igloo retreat before , utilizing the host's constructed shelter for protection.
Ecological Role
that help regulate of their , including spiders.