Idiogramma
Idiogramma
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Ichneumonoidea
- Family: Ichneumonidae
- Subfamily: Tryphoninae
- Tribe: Idiogrammatini
- Genus: Idiogramma
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Idiogramma: /ˌɪdi.əˈɡræmə/
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Summary
Idiogramma is a genus of ichneumon wasps known for their unique morphology and host-specific parasitic behavior, focusing on xyelid larvae.
Physical Characteristics
Idiogramma species are characterized by their outwardly-curved mandibular teeth, which are unique to this genus of ichneumons.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctively curved mandibles which are a hallmark of this genus.
Habitat
Idiogramma species are typically found in environments where their host, xyelid larvae, are present, particularly in areas with vegetation supporting the larvae.
Distribution
4 known species in the area: Idiogramma bridwelli, Idiogramma comstockii, Idiogramma euryops, and Idiogramma longicauda.
Diet
Koinobiont ectoparasitoids that parasitize xyelid larvae concealed in plant tissues.
Life Cycle
Idiogramma species do not complete their development until after the xyelid larva has vacated its mine in the host plant, which occurs just before the sawfly undergoes ecdysis.
Reproduction
Details regarding reproductive strategies are scarce; however, they are known to be ectoparasitoids.
Ecosystem Role
They play a role in controlling the populations of xyelid larvae by parasitizing them.
Collecting Methods
- Netting during flight
- Searching host plants for larval cases
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Ethanol preservation
Evolution
Idiogramma is the only extant genus in the tribe Idiogrammatini, indicating a unique evolutionary lineage among ichneumonids.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- ichneumonidae
- parasitoid wasps
- genus Idiogramma
- koinobiont