Distribution
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Ghana. |
Biology
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"All examined specimens of Pilosalis barbatulus have been labeled “Ex. Ptyelus grossus, F.” However, three additional cards also bearing this label have several host remains that suggest a different host. These host remains (some still with parasitoids inside) are ovoid sac-like structures (? mummies) covered in white waxy filaments identical to those found on many of the above specimens. This suggests that the hosts are most probably mealybugs (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) or related hemipterans and not P. grossus (which produces foam and not waxy filaments). Further evidence is one leg found together with the host remains, which generally resembles mealybug legs i.e., it has one tarsal segment. Thus, the ovoid cocoon-like structures are probably mummies, i.e., parasitized nymphs or females of an unknown mealybug. Other species of Pilosalis are expected to have similar hosts." (Mitroiu et al. 2024). |
References |
Mitroiu MD, van Noort S, Rasplus JY. 2024. New genera of Afrotropical Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera: Cerocephalidae, Epichrysomallidae, Pirenidae and Pteromalidae). PeerJ 12:e16798 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.16798 |
Credits |
Photographs © Mircea-Dan Mitroiu (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași).
Map illustration
© Simon van Noort (Iziko Museums of South Africa). |
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