Understudied-diversity
Guides
Ceraphronoidea
Ceraphronoidea is a small superfamily of minute parasitoid and hyperparasitoid wasps (0.5–4 mm body length) comprising two families: Ceraphronidae and Megaspilidae. Approximately 740 species have been described globally, though estimates suggest true diversity may reach 12,000–21,000 species. The group is among the most severely understudied parasitoid wasp lineages, with over 80% of species having unknown host associations. First described by Alexander Henry Haliday, Ceraphronoidea has been historically difficult to study due to morphological challenges including monotonous external morphology, extreme sexual dimorphism, and reduced wing venation.
Diapriidae
Diapriidae is a family of minute parasitoid wasps in the order Hymenoptera. Adults range from 1–8 mm in length, with most species measuring 2–4 mm. The family contains approximately 2,300 described species in around 150–200 genera, though estimates suggest at least 4,500 species exist globally. Members are primarily parasitoids of Diptera larvae and pupae, with some species attacking Coleoptera or associated with ants. The family exhibits considerable morphological diversity, including frequent winglessness and pronounced sexual dimorphism.