Aspilota

Aspilota

Description

Length 1-3mm. This family (Alysiinae) all possess non-overlapping, outward-curving (exodont) mandibles with distinct teeth with with three lateral teeth that open outward away from the mouth cavity. 

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

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.

Life History

Endoparasites of the larvae of Phorid flies.  The exodont mandibles open away from the head to push rather than crush, allowing the wasp which has developed inside the hardened puparia to force its way out.

UK Status

Widespread.

VC55 Status

Unknown.

Further Information

van Achterberg, C. (1988). The genera of the Aspilota-group and some descriptions of fungicolous Alysiini from the Netherlands (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae). Zoologische Verhandelingen, 247(1), 1-88.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured squares = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records