Lycogaster pullata
Lycogaster pullata is a of hyperparasitic in the Trigonalidae. Members of this family are known for their unusual , in which females lay on foliage that are then ingested by caterpillars. The trigonalid larvae cannot develop in the caterpillar directly; instead, they must be captured by a primary wasp (such as an ichneumonid or braconid) that attacks the caterpillar. The trigonalid larva then consumes the primary parasitoid from within. This complex hyperparasitic strategy is a defining feature of the family.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lycogaster pullata: //ˌlaɪkoʊˈɡæstər pʊˈlɑːtə//
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Ecological Role
Hyperparasitoid; occupies the fourth by parasitizing primary that attack lepidopteran caterpillars. This indirect may help regulate of primary parasitoids, though specific ecological impacts for this are undocumented.