Family: Eulophidae
Common Name: Eulophid Wasps, Eulophids
Appearance: Eulophid wasps belong to the Eulophidae family consisting of hymenopteran insects. They have a characteristic 4 segment tarsi along with a segmented antenna that sets them apart from other members of the species. They are 1-2mm in length, and their bodies withers after death.
Host Plants or Food: They prey on a diverse set of host insects, including mites, caterpillars, spider eggs, and scales. Several members of the species also feed on wood and leaves.
Territory: Throughout the world, including North America, Western USA, Eastern USA, Australia, Europe, Asia, and the Gulf States
Mode of Damage: Beneficial garden insects. These wasps feed on dead leaves as well as harmful pests, making them excellent pest and disease management insects.
Habits and Life History:
Eulophid wasps are found in all parts of the world, including the sea. However, the vast majority of them consist of terrestrial species with vegetation and temperate, moist conditions.
The larvae and pupae are white or yellowish-white in color and are generally found as parasites.
The female wasp lays several eggs in the body of the host through the ovipositor.
The larvae hatch from the eggs and live off the host’s body fluids and organs, killing them off later on.
