Description of the Mature Larva of the Sand Wasp <I>Bembix bidentata</I> and its Parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae, Chrysididae, Mutillidae)

Authors

  • Josep Tormos
  • Josep Daniel Asís
  • Amparo Beneitez
  • S. F. Gayubo

Abstract

The mature larvae of Bembix bidentata and one of its chrysidid and mutillid parasitoids are described and illustrated, and structures of phylogenetic value are discussed. The mature larva of B. bidentata is characterized by an integument with short setae (< 40 µm) and scanty microspinules. The ratio between the length of the antennal papilla and the width of the antennal orbit is a character state that can be used in the separation of the final instar of European Bembix species. The mature larva of Chrysidea disclusa is characterized by a combination of two character states: (1) an atrium without asperities or weak lines on the circumference, and (2) antennal papillae longer than broad; the larval morphology of Chrysidea previously was unknown. The mature larva of Chrysura hybrida is characterized, within the genus Chrysura, by the autapomorphy “maxillary palpus with 4 sensilla at apex.” The range of hosts of Chrysura spp. is broadened to the Crabronidae. The mature larva of Smicromyrme rufipes is characterized, within the Mutillinae, by having more than 8 apical setae and no apical papillae on the labium.

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Published

2009-03-01

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Section

Literature Review Articles