Gelis
Thunberg, 1827
Gelis is a of ichneumon in the , containing at least 270 described . The genus is characterized by small, often wingless females that are of various . Some species have been documented attacking , including -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 in their igloo-shaped stone retreats, penetrating the walls with long . feed on the immobilized spider juveniles.
- Zodarion (genus) - Multiple in this -eating 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 of G. apterus makes a inside the host's igloo retreat before , utilizing the host's constructed shelter for protection.
Ecological Role
that help regulate of their , including .