Index |
There are nine genera and around 600 species in the subfamily Mesochorinae(Wahl, 1993). Mesochorinae have been found world-wide, but Dasch notes that they are commonly found in temperate and subarctic regions. Dasch also mentions Mesochorinae can be sighted at "higher altitudes in the warmer regions of the earth"(Dasch, 1974). All species within the subfamily are endoparasites. Parasites of Lepidoptera, Symphyta, Coleoptera, Miridae, Psocoptera have all been used to rear Mesochorinae(Krombein et al., 1979). Some evidence suggests that a few species are primary parasites, however, most references strongly suggest they are obligate hyperparasitoids of primarily Ichneumonoidea and Tachinidae(Wahl, 1993). For this reason, Mesochorinae may adversely affect the desired result of the introduction of an exotic species. The introduction of parasitic wasps for biological control needs to consider the population of Mesochorinae that may either be in the area or accidentally introduced(Wahl, 1993).
The identification guide is currently under construction. Sorry for any
inconvienence. The photograph page is currently under construction. Sorry for any
inconvienence. References I would like thank all of the members of Dr. Pickering's lab team
including Dr. Pickering, Ryan, Elizabeth, Beth, Heather, Linda, Bryan,
Jessica, Julie and many others that helped me throughout the research and
development of this informative page.
Discover Life in America
| Flora & Fauna
| Hymenoptera
| Ichneumonoidea
| Ichneumonidae
| Mesochorinae