Ophioninae
Appearance
Ophioninae | |
---|---|
Ophion luteus | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Hymenoptera |
Family: | Ichneumonidae |
Subfamily: | Ophioninae |
Tribes | |
Ophioninae is a worldwide subfamily of Ichneumonidae, comprising 32 genera and exhibiting high diversity in tropical regions. They are koinobiont endoparasitoids of larval Lepidoptera, although at least one species parasitizes Scarabaeidae (Coleoptera). Notably, they are among the few species within Parasitica whose ovipositors are capable of stinging vertebrates. Pupae of Ophioninae are ovoid and feature a distinct central clear band, which is a characteristic trait of this subfamily. These insects are typically large, slender, and orange, with compressed and curved abdomens. They possess prominent ocelli and are primarily active during the night, often being attracted to light sources.
References
- Aubert, J.F. 1978. Les Ichneumonides ouest-palearctiques et leurs hotes 2. Banchinae et Suppl. aux Pimplinae. Laboratoire d'Evolution des Etres Organises, Paris & EDIFAT-OPIDA, Echauffour.
- Townes, H. & M. Townes. 1978. Ichneumon-flies of America North of Mexico: 7. Subfamily Banchinae, tribes Lissonotini and Banchini. Memoirs of the American Entomological Institute 26: 1-614.
External links
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