Distribution
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Probably
originally an Oriental species, but now widespread throughout
tropical and temperate countries. Afrotropical region: probably all countries.
Also in Neacrtic and Neotropical regions.
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Biology
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Parasitoid of cockroach eggs, particularly those of the
American cockroach Periplaneta americana and the Oriental cockroach (Blattella
orientalis). Female penetrates tough cockroach egg case with her ovipositor
and lays a single egg inside. Larva eats cockroach eggs and pupates inside the
case. On emerging from the pupa, adult wasp chews an exit hole in the side of
the case. Adults occasionally found inside homes and buildings.
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References
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Cameron, E.
1957. On the parasites and predators of the cockroach. II. Evania
appendigaster (L.). Bulletin of Entomological Research,
48:199-209.
van
Noort, S. & Picker, M.
2011.
Wasps, Bees, Ants. Class Insecta, Order Hymenoptera.
Pp 140-146. In:
Picker,
M. & Griffiths, C. (eds.)
Alien & Invasive Animals. A South African perspective.
Struik Nature.
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Credits
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Photograph
© Simon van Noort (Iziko Museums).
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