Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity





back to order Hymenoptera		 insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: nectar and pollen feeding
Immatures: parasitic

Size: 2 to 12 mm
Flight : strong flier

North American
Species: 231

Hymenoptera Chrysididae
cuckoo wasps

Front Wings: membranous
Hind Wings: membranous
Mouthparts: chewing
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified

Special Characteristics: Cuckoo wasps have a coarsely sculpted, metallic green, blue or red body. The abdomen is hollowed out on the ventral surface and is usually curled under in dead specimens.

Comments: Cuckoo wasps are external parasites of wasp or bee larvae. They also attack sawfly larvae and eggs of stick-insects. When disturbed usually curl up into a ball.

Species:
Chrysis coerulans Fabricius

Common Name:

Feeding Habits: This species is a parasite of other wasps.

Distribution: