Platygastridae

Pronunciation:  [Platy·GAST·ri·dee]

Common Name:   Platygastrid Wasps

Description:   Members of this family are very small parasitic wasps that lay their eggs in the the eggs or larvae of other insects.   Most species are shiny black with highly reduced wing venation and elbowed antennae that arise very low on the face – just above the mouthparts.

Spot ID Key Characters:

1. Small to minute; glossy black in color
2. Wing venation highly reduced or absent
3. Elbowed antennae arise very low on the face – just above the mouthparts

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Order:  Hymenoptera