Calliscelio

Ashmead, 1893

Species Guides

1

Calliscelio is a of in the Scelionidae, comprising 97 described worldwide. The genus was erected by Ashmead in 1893. Members are parasitoids of crickets (Gryllidae), with at least one species, C. elegans, recognized as a widespread "tramp species" likely dispersed by human commerce.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Calliscelio: //ˌkælɪˈsɛlioʊ//

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Distribution

Widespread throughout tropical regions globally. Specific records include: Hawai'i (type locality of C. elegans), India (Karnataka, Kerala), Colombia (El Tuparro; Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Chiribiquete).

Host Associations

  • Orthoptera: Gryllidae - association primarily documented for C. elegans; may apply to other in but not explicitly confirmed

Behavior

Females of at least one (C. elegans) have been observed searching close to the ground for gryllid . Males are extremely rare compared to females in this species.

Ecological Role

of crickets (Gryllidae), potentially contributing to of pests in agricultural systems such as sugar cane.

Human Relevance

At least one (C. elegans) has been characterized as a "tramp species" likely distributed by human commerce, possibly associated with pests of sugar cane.

Similar Taxa

  • Caenoteleia KiefferJunior synonym of Calliscelio; previously treated as separate monobasic
  • CaloteleaC. tanugatra synonymized with Calliscelio elegans; historically confused due to similar

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