Heterospilinae

Heterospilinae is a subfamily of parasitic wasps belonging to the family Braconidae. These wasps are characterized by their small size and often cryptic lifestyles, making them challenging to study. They are distributed globally, inhabiting a wide range of terrestrial environments.

The subfamily is known for its diverse host ranges, with many species specializing in parasitizing the larvae of wood-boring beetles and other insects. The female wasps typically deposit their eggs within or on their host, and the developing wasp larvae feed on the host's tissues, eventually leading to the host's death. This parasitic relationship plays a significant role in regulating insect populations in various ecosystems.

Morphologically, Heterospilinae species can be identified by a combination of features, including their wing venation, antennal segmentation, and ovipositor structure. However, due to the subtle differences between species, precise identification often requires examination by specialists. Research into the subfamily is ongoing, with new species and host associations being discovered regularly. Their ecological importance as natural enemies of pest insects makes them of interest in biological control programs.