Taeniogonalos

Schulz, 1906

Species Guides

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Taeniogonalos is a of in the Trigonalidae, comprising approximately 53 described distributed across multiple continents. Species in this genus exhibit unusual , including both primary and facultative hyperparasitism. Some species, such as T. venatoria, reproduce via with extremely skewed sex ratios. The genus is characterized by distinctive morphological features that distinguish it from other trigonalyid genera.

Taeniogonalos woodorum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Taeniogonalos woodorum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Taeniogonalos woodorum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Taeniogonalos: /ˌtaɪniːoʊˈɡænələs/

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Distribution

occur in Australia, India, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan, North America (including Vermont, USA), and Africa. The has a broad geographic range spanning multiple biogeographic regions.

Life Cycle

In T. venatoria, are oviposited onto foliage and ingested by larvae, then hatch and penetrate the gut wall. Larval instars 1-3 are endoparasitic; instars 4-5 are ectoparasitic. are , with synchronized to host .

Behavior

remain viable on foliage for up to 5 months. are relatively short-lived (approximately 8 days), with survival increased by access to water and food.

Ecological Role

Primary and facultative hyperparasitoid. At least one (T. venatoria) parasitizes pergid larvae. T. gundlachii has been recorded as a hyperparasitoid of Hyalophora cecropia (Saturniidae).

Sources and further reading