Xenidae
Xenidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Strepsiptera
- Family: Xenidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Xenidae: /ˈzɛnɪdiː/
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Summary
Xenidae is a family of twisted-winged insects, known for their parasitic behavior on wasps, with several genera and numerous species described worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
Males have 4-segmented tarsi and antennae, and aedeagus; females have a flattened cephalothorax with genital apertures (4 in Xenos).
Identification Tips
Identification can be based on the structure of the male and female genitalia and the number of segments in tarsi and antennae.
Habitat
Parasitic in the nests of wasps, particularly found in association with their hosts.
Distribution
Worldwide, with about 22 species in 3 genera in specific regions.
Diet
Parasitic; feeds on host wasps (Vespidae and Sphecidae).
Life Cycle
Life cycle involves a parasitic relationship with wasps; larvae develop within the host.
Reproduction
Reproduction is sexual; females often remain within the host for breeding.
Ecosystem Role
As parasites, they may regulate wasp populations.
Collecting Methods
- Trapping wasps to study parasite presence.
- Collecting adult specimens from nests.
Preservation Methods
- Pinning for dry specimens.
- Alcohol preservation for genetic studies.
Evolution
Demoted to Xeninae by Kinzelbach in 1971 and later reinstated as Xenidae by Pohl in 2002.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often overlooked due to their small size and the obscure nature of their life cycle within wasps.
Tags
- Xenidae
- Strepsiptera
- parasitic insects
- wasp parasites