Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid vs Lunar Ichneumon Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid | Lunar Ichneumon Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leptomastix dactylopii | Megarhyssa lunator |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Encyrtidae | Ichneumonidae |
| Size | 1.5-2.5 mm | 30-50 mm body, ovipositor up to 130 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Forests |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | South America, Mediterranean, Worldwide (introduced) | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid
A solitary parasitoid wasp specific to citrus mealybugs, used globally in greenhouse biological control. Adults are slender with iridescent wings and long antennae.
Did You Know?
A single female can parasitize up to 100 mealybugs in her lifetime, making her a potent biological control agent.
Lunar Ichneumon Wasp
A striking ichneumon with a yellow and brown banded body. It parasitizes pigeon tremex horntail larvae inside hardwood trees.
Did You Know?
Its ovipositor is the longest relative to body size of any insect in North America.