Microgastrinae

Microgastrinae
Cotesia melanoscela
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Hymenoptera
Family:	Braconidae
Subfamily:	Microgastrinae

Microgastrinae is a subfamily of braconid wasps, encompassing 2,000 described species, with an estimated 5,000-10,000 total species. This makes it one of the most specious subfamilies of parasitoid wasps.

Genera within this subfamily include:

These wasps are small, with 18 segmented antennae. Most species are black or brown, a few are more colorful. Many species are morphologically similar enough to be considered cryptic species. Species within this subfamily have a worldwide distribution. 135 species of Microgastrinae have been confirmed from Canada, though the number may be as high as 275. At least 28 species have been traced to Turkey in Gökçeada and Bozcaada.

Microgastrinae are koinobiont, primary endoparasitoids of larval Lepidoptera. While most species are solitary, many are gregarious, meaning multiple wasp eggs develop within the same caterpillar. When the eggs hatch the wasp larvae feed on the hemolymph and organs of their host. Once fully developed, the larvae exit the dying caterpillar and immediately spin silken cocoons where they pupate.

Microgastrinae is one of six subfamilies of Braconidae which carry polydnaviruses.

More than 100 species of Microgastrinae have been used in biological control programs.

Cocoons of Apanteles wasp and Papilio demoleus caterpillar

Microgastrinae wasp empty cocoons

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Wikipedia