Asaninae

Asaninae is a subfamily of wasps belonging to the family Braconidae. These parasitic wasps are characterized by their generally small to medium size and are distributed worldwide, with a significant number of species found in tropical and subtropical regions. The subfamily is diverse, encompassing numerous genera and species, many of which are still undescribed by science.

The primary hosts for Asaninae wasps are typically the larvae of other insects, particularly those belonging to the order Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and Coleoptera (beetles). Adult female Asaninae wasps deposit their eggs either directly into or onto their host, or nearby where the host will eventually encounter them. The developing wasp larva then feeds on the host's tissues, eventually killing it. This parasitic relationship makes Asaninae important biological control agents in natural ecosystems and in agricultural settings, as they help regulate populations of pest insects.

Many Asaninae species are solitary parasitoids, meaning that each wasp larva develops independently within a single host. However, some species can exhibit gregarious parasitism. The morphology of Asaninae wasps can vary, but common features include a distinct head, thorax, and abdomen, with membranous wings often bearing characteristic venation patterns. Their antennae are typically filiform. Research into Asaninae continues to uncover new species and further elucidate their complex life cycles and ecological roles.