Researchers from Kyushu University and Vietnam National Museum of Nature have identified 16 new parasitic wasp species. This discovery increased the number of known bumblebee species by 30%. In this respect reports SciTechDily.
Loboscelidia are a group of parasitoid wasps that includes approximately 50 species. Unlike the wasp, which is easily recognized by its striped color, Loboscelidia is a small brown insect 2-5 mm long. Loboscelidia act as parasites of insects, laying their eggs in the bodies or eggs of other species, explains the study’s lead author, Associate Professor Toshiharu Mita of Kyushu University’s School of Agriculture.
A team of scientists conducted field research in six regions of Vietnam, using traps and nets to catch tiny hornets. They managed to capture the female of Loboscelidia squamosa, one of the parasitic wasp species. They placed this in a container filled with soil containing the egg of a rod-shaped insect. The female wasp pierced the shell, laid her own egg inside, and then buried it in the ground. The researchers noted that most members of the Loboscelidia group have very powerful heads, allowing them to dig egg holes in the soil.
In total, scientists discovered 16 species of parasitic wasps. Loboscelidia wasps were considered a fairly rare group, but they turned out to be quite common in some areas. However, the authors added that any interference with this hornet’s habitat could lead to the extinction of the species forever.
Previously in Australia discovered A new subspecies of worm that destroys harmful wasp eggs.