Pteromalus

About 50 species identified so far in the UK. 1-5mm in length, typically metallic green, bronze, or bluish-black. Some species feature contrasting yellow or testaceous (brick-red) legs. The clypeus (the lower plate of the face above the mouth) is usually emarginate (notched) or truncate (straight), rather than heavily toothed. Antennae geniculate (elbowed) and sexually dimorphic. They generally consist of 13 segments: a long basal scape, a pedicel, 2 or 3 tiny ring-like segments (anelli), 5 or 6 larger funicular segments, and a 3-segmented club (clava) at the tip. The propodeum (the first abdominal segment that is fused to the rear of the thorax) is heavily reticulated (net-like texture). It usually features a distinct central ridge (median carina), lateral folds (plicae), and a pronounced nucha (a neck-like posterior extension connecting to the abdomen). The forewings have highly reduced venation., the marginal vein is elongate, and the postmarginal vein is typically as long as or longer than the marginal vein. The wings also feature a speculum - a distinct, hairless, transparent patch near the base of the wing. 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. Pteromalus species are parasitoids, and idiobionts, meaning the female wasp permanently paralyzes or arrests the development of the host when she lays her eggs (c.f. konobionts, where host development continues while the parasitoid is feeding on it). Many species are gregarious endoparasitoids -a single female will inject dozens of eggs into a single host pupa. The genus has an exceptionally broad host range, primarily targeting holometabolous insects (those that undergo complete metamorphosis), including Lepidoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera. Some Pteromalus species act as hyperparasitoids, laying their eggs inside the larvae or pupae of other parasitoid wasps. Adults forage for floral nectar and aphid honeydew. No additional images available for this species.