Spider-wasp-parasitoid
Guides
Messatoporus
Messatoporus is a large New World genus of ichneumonid wasps in the subfamily Cryptinae, comprising 89 valid species. The genus is monophyletic and distinguished by a unique combination of morphological synapomorphies including specialized mandible structure and propodeal features. Species exhibit a morphological gradient from forms resembling other Osprynchotina to a highly derived morphotype with convergent traits similar to Gabuniina, interpreted as adaptations for locating and accessing deeply concealed hosts.