Lacewing-parasite
Guides
Chrysopophthorus
Chrysopophthorus is a genus of parasitoid wasps in the family Braconidae, with approximately eight described species distributed across four continents. The genus exhibits a notably wide geographic range, with species described from North America, South and Central America, Europe, and Asia. At least one species, C. americanus, is known to parasitize adult green lacewings (Chrysopidae), representing a specialized host association.
Chrysopophthorus americanus
Chrysopophthorus americanus is a minute parasitoid wasp in the family Braconidae, described by Mason in 1964 from the United States. It belongs to a genus distributed across four continents, with species specialized as parasitoids of chrysopid larvae (green lacewings). The wasp has been observed at blacklight traps, where it likely seeks its lacewing hosts that are also attracted to ultraviolet light. Adults exhibit distinctive pale, almost ghostly coloration with striking emerald eyes.
Dichrogaster chrysopae
Dichrogaster chrysopae is a species of parasitoid wasp in the family Ichneumonidae, first described by Ashmead in 1894. The species epithet "chrysopae" indicates an association with lacewings (Chrysopidae), likely reflecting a host relationship. It belongs to the genus Dichrogaster, a group of ichneumonid wasps. Available records for this species are extremely limited, with only a single observation documented on iNaturalist.
Perilampus chrysopae
Perilampus chrysopae is a species of hyperparasitic wasp in the family Perilampidae, described by Crawford in 1914. The species name 'chrysopae' indicates an association with lacewings (Chrysopidae), which serve as hosts. Like other perilampids, it exhibits a complex life cycle involving broadcast egg-laying and mobile planidium larvae that actively seek hosts. The species is documented from multiple provinces across Canada.