Ophion longigena
This record describes Ophion longigena (species). Recorded family: Ichneumonidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A mainly orange species, with some darkening towards the rear of the abdomen. 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. July and August seem to be the times when most records have occurred. Parasite of moths such as the Turnip Moth. Status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Ichneumonidae
- Genus
- Ophion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various.
Seasonal Activity
July and August seem to be the times when most records have occurred.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Parasite of moths such as the Turnip Moth.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Ophion longigena. 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 Ophion longigena (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Ophion longigena
What is Ophion longigena?
Ophion longigena is a species in the family Ichneumonidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Ophion longigena found?
Habitat: Various.
When is Ophion longigena active?
Ophion longigena: seasonal activity - July and August seem to be the times when most records have occurred..
What is the life cycle of a Ophion longigena?
Parasite of moths such as the Turnip Moth.