Encyrtid Wasps – Encyrtidae family

Encyrtid Wasps   Family: Encyrtidae Common Name: Encyrtids, Encyrtid wasps Appearance: Encyrtid wasps have a characteristically large mesopleuron that distinguishes them from other species. The middle coxae are located anterior to the mesopleuron, which serves as another factor for their identification. Female wasps show a clubbed antenna, while the male antennas are relatively long. They also have a long middle leg for assistance in jumping. Host Plants or Food: Encyrtid wasps prey on all sorts of insects, including scales and ticks. Depending upon the species, they may feed on eggs, larvae, or even the adult stage of host insects. Territory: Throughout the world, including North America, Western USA, Eastern USA, Australia, Europe, Asia, and the Gulf States Mode of Damage:  They are considered beneficial garden insects since they do not harm the plants and kill off harmful insects and bugs by using them as hosts. Habits and Life History: Encyrtid wasps are more commonly found in drier terrestrial areas, specifically in woody shrubs and trees. Female wasp deposits its egg into the host, where it hatches to give rise to almost 1000 larvae. The females are more important; however, their lifespan is not more than 3 days on average. Male Encyrtid wasps are comparatively rare. They serve as essential biological agents keeping the insect population in control.