Campopleginae

Campopleginae is a subfamily of parasitoid wasps in the family Ichneumonidae. Members are endoparasitoids whose larvae develop inside a living host, ultimately causing its death. The group contains numerous genera, including Campoplex and Phygadeuon, and represents a substantial portion of ichneumonid diversity.

Biology and ecology: Most Campopleginae are koinobiont parasitoids of larval Lepidoptera (caterpillars); some attack other larvae such as sawflies. Females lay eggs in or on developing hosts; the wasp larva hatches and consumes host tissues while the host continues to feed, often altering host physiology to prolong growth until emergence.

Life cycle and behavior: After several molts inside the host, the larva pupates and emerges as an adult, often following a period of overwintering in temperate regions. Adults typically feed on nectar or pollen and mate at floral resources, linking their activity to plant communities.

Distribution and significance: Campopleginae occur worldwide, with greatest species richness in temperate regions. They play an important role as natural enemies of pest caterpillars and are explored as components of biological control programs, though effectiveness depends on species and habitat.

Identification and taxonomy: The subfamily is classified within Ichneumonidae and comprises many genera beyond Campoplex and Phygadeuon. Because external morphology overlaps across many ichneumonids, accurate identification generally relies on adult characters such as wing venation and genitalia, sometimes requiring expert examination.