Trigonaloidea

Trigonaloidea is a superfamily of parasitic wasps within the order Hymenoptera. This group is characterized by its relatively small size and distinct wing venation, often featuring a prominent triangular cell. Trigonaloidea are endoparasitoids, meaning their larvae develop inside the body of a host.

The larvae of trigonaloidean wasps are known to parasitize the larvae of various insects, most notably those of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and Symphyta (sawflies). The adult wasps lay their eggs in or on the host, and the developing larva consumes the host's tissues from the inside. This parasitic relationship can play a significant role in regulating populations of their host species.

This superfamily is divided into several families, with Trigonalidae being the most well-known and speciose. While not as widely studied as some other parasitic wasp groups, trigonaloideans are found in diverse habitats across the globe. Their cryptic nature and specialized life cycle contribute to their relatively less understood status in entomology. Further research continues to uncover the ecological importance and evolutionary relationships within this fascinating group of wasps.