itoid

Itoid refers to a group of parasitic wasps belonging to the superfamily Ichneumonoidea. These wasps are characterized by their elongated ovipositor, a feature used to lay eggs in or on a host. The Ichneumonoidea superfamily is one of the largest and most diverse superfamilies of insects, containing tens of thousands of described species and many more that are yet to be discovered.

It is important to note that "itoid" is not a formal taxonomic rank but rather a colloquial or descriptive term used to refer to the members of this superfamily. The Ichneumonoidea is divided into two major families: Ichneumonidae and Braconidae. Ichneumonidae, often referred to as "ichneumons," are generally larger and more diverse, while Braconidae, or "braconids," are typically smaller and more common.

These wasps play a crucial role in natural ecosystems as parasitoids. This means their larvae develop by feeding on a host, ultimately killing it. They parasitize a wide range of other arthropods, including insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, making them significant natural enemies of many pest species. This biological control function is highly valued in agriculture and forestry, where these wasps are sometimes deployed to manage insect populations. The life cycle and host specificity of itonid wasps vary greatly depending on the species.