Braconid and chalcid parasitic wasps

Beneficial

Braconid and chalcid parasitic wasps

Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Chalcididae


Brown or black, these wasp species are small and difficult to differentiate from one another, except that chalcids have greatly enlarged hind femora (third leg segment). They have two pairs of membranous wings, segmented antennae, and a very distinct head, thorax and abdomen. Females often have a needle-like ovipositor at the tip of their abdomen. They are harmless to humans. Note: These wasps are extremely sensitive to most broad-spectrum insecticides.