Netelia infractor
This record describes Netelia infractor (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The genus Netelia can be distinguished from the very similar Ophion species by the present of an areolet in the wing - a tiny, roughly circular cell. Netelia infractor is largely orange and has a black stemmaticum (area between the ocelli) and a rather yellow face. 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. Parasitic on certain moth larvae, favouring Noctuid and Notodontid hosts. It seems to be widespread in England although it is poorly recorded. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Netelia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Parasitic on certain moth larvae, favouring Noctuid and Notodontid hosts.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It seems to be widespread in England although it is poorly recorded.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Netelia infractor. 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 Netelia infractor (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Netelia infractor
What is Netelia infractor?
Netelia infractor is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Netelia infractor found?
Habitat: Various habitats.
When is Netelia infractor active?
Netelia infractor: seasonal activity - May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Netelia infractor?
Parasitic on certain moth larvae, favouring Noctuid and Notodontid hosts.