Aspilota
This record describes Aspilota (genus). Recorded family: Braconidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 1-3mm. This family (Alysiinae) all possess non-overlapping, outward-curving (exodont) mandibles with distinct teeth with with three lateral teeth that open outward away from the mouth cavity. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Endoparasites of the larvae of Phorid flies. The exodont mandibles open away from the head to push rather than crush, allowing the wasp which has developed inside the hardened puparia to force its way out. van Achterberg, C.. The genera of the Aspilota-group and some descriptions of fungicolous Alysiini from the Netherlands (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae). Zoologische Verhandelingen, 247, 1-88. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera (Ants, Bees, Wasps and Sawflies)
- Superfamily
- Ichneumonoidea
- Family
- Braconidae (Braconid Wasps)
- Subfamily
- Alysiinae
- Tribe
- Alysiini
- Genus
- Aspilota
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Endoparasites of the larvae of Phorid flies. The exodont mandibles open away from the head to push rather than crush, allowing the wasp which has developed inside the hardened puparia to force its way out.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Aspilota. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hymenoptera includes over 150,000 described species of ants, bees, wasps, and sawflies. Earth harbors approximately 20 quadrillion (20×10^15) ants, with a combined biomass of ~12 megatons of dry carbon - exceeding the combined biomass of all wild birds and mammals (PNAS, 2022).
Ecological role of the group
About 35% of the world's food crops depend on animal pollinators. The chocolate industry, valued at over $100 billion, depends on pollinating flies and midges. Ants are the dominant soil engineers in most terrestrial ecosystems, turning more soil than earthworms in many habitats.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Pollinators contribute $235-577 billion worth of annual global food production (FAO). In the U.S., bee pollination alone benefits crops valued at $18 billion annually, and honey bees are responsible for $5.4 billion in agricultural productivity. Between April 2023-2024, 55.1% of managed honey bee colonies were lost. The U.S. bee population dropped from 5 million to 2.5 million.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, USDA, EPA, PNAS (2022), US Fish & Wildlife Service. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Aspilota (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aspilota
What is Aspilota?
Aspilota is a genus in the family Braconidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Aspilota?
1-3mm. This family (Alysiinae) all possess non-overlapping, outward-curving (exodont) mandibles with distinct teeth with with three lateral teeth that open outward away from the mouth cavity.
What is the life cycle of a Aspilota?
Endoparasites of the larvae of Phorid flies. The exodont mandibles open away from the head to push rather than crush, allowing the wasp which has developed inside the hardened puparia to force its way out.