Macrocentrus linearis
This record describes Macrocentrus linearis (species). Recorded family: Braconidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Braconidae
- Genus
- Macrocentrus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Summer to early autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Macrocentrus linearis is a parasitoid of Tortricidae moths (especially arboreal ones).
Additional species information
Recorded status
Thought to be widespread and fairly frequent in much of Britain, but seriously under recorded.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Macrocentrus linearis. 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 Macrocentrus linearis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrocentrus linearis
How big is Macrocentrus linearis?
4 or 5 mm without ovipositor) parasitic wasp. It is completely orange-brown.
Where is Macrocentrus linearis found?
Habitat: Various habitats.
When is Macrocentrus linearis active?
Macrocentrus linearis: seasonal activity - Summer to early autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Macrocentrus linearis?
Macrocentrus linearis is a parasitoid of Tortricidae moths (especially arboreal ones).