Cecidostiba fungosa
This record describes Cecidostiba fungosa (species). Recorded family: Pteromalidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3-4mm. Metallic green. Basal cell of forewing bare or with at most a few hairs distally. Antennae with all funicular segments transverse, combined length of pedicellus and flagellum less than breadth of head. Propodeum very short, medially from hardly one quarter to slightly more than one third as long as the scutellum, reticulate. Mesoscutum with some shallow though distinct piliferous punctures amongst the reticulation. 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. Parasitoid in galls of Biorhiza pallida, probably also of Andricus quercusramuli, quercusradicis; Plagiotrochus quercusilicis. Graham, MWR de V. (1969) The pteromalidae of north-western Europe (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea). Bull. Br. Mus. nat. Hist. (Ent.) Suppl. 16. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Pteromalidae
- Genus
- Cecidostiba
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with Oaks.
Seasonal Activity
Adults May-July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Parasitoid in galls of Biorhiza pallida, probably also of Andricus quercusramuli, quercusradicis; Plagiotrochus quercusilicis.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common, widespread.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Cecidostiba fungosa. 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 Cecidostiba fungosa (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cecidostiba fungosa
What is Cecidostiba fungosa?
Cecidostiba fungosa is a species in the family Pteromalidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Cecidostiba fungosa?
3-4mm. Metallic green. Basal cell of forewing bare or with at most a few hairs distally. Antennae with all funicular segments transverse, combined length of pedicellus and flagellum less than breadth of head. Propodeum very short, medially from hardly one quarter to slightly more than one third as long as the scutellum, reticulate. Mesoscutum with some shallow though distinct piliferous punctures amongst the reticulation.
Where is Cecidostiba fungosa found?
Habitat: Associated with Oaks.
When is Cecidostiba fungosa active?
Cecidostiba fungosa: seasonal activity - Adults May-July..
What is the life cycle of a Cecidostiba fungosa?
Parasitoid in galls of Biorhiza pallida, probably also of Andricus quercusramuli, quercusradicis; Plagiotrochus quercusilicis.