Agupta jeanphilippei Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head relatively elongate. Face, clypeus and labrum with coarse and dense punctures. Face projection between antennal base with median carina. Malar line relatively long. Mouth parts elongate, including bilobate glossa (as in Figs 1B, 2B, 3B, 8B). First few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed (so that at times three rows could be distinguished but other times rows are not clearly defined). Anteromesoscutum relatively long (longer than maximum width). Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with strong crenulae. Propodeum with strongly raised median carina which has strong lateral carinae radiating across its length (Figs 1E, 2E, 3E, 4F, 5E, 6D, 7E). Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Fore wing vein (RS+M)b much longer than areolet width (Figs 1C, 3C, 4C, 6C, 7C, 8C). Metacoxa smooth and relatively long (reaching beyond posterior margin of T3). T1 relatively strongly narrowing from anterior margin to half of tergite, then parallel sided up to posterior margin (Figs 1E, 2E, 3D, E, 4E, F, 5E, 6E); T1 anterior half mostly smooth, strongly concave and with central sulcus; posterior half punctured and with a polished area on posterior margin. Hypopygium folded and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and about same length as metatibia. Specimens of the genus are among the largest within Microgastrinae (body length and fore wing length almost always 5 mm or more, reaching up to 6.6 mm in the largest specimens).

From a morphological perspective, this genus seems to be related to Choeras (and several related groups considered to be part of Choeras; e.g., see comments on Austin and Dangerfield 1992 and also Discussion below). From those “Choeras s.l.” taxa, Agupta is unusual because a number of features. The antenna in males (and sometimes in females) has the first few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed in three rows, or no row can be clearly defined. The mouth parts are elongate, including a bilobated glossa. The propodeum has a strongly raised median carina that has small radiating carinae across its length. The shape of T1 is also distinctive (Figs 1C–E, 2E, 3C–E, 4E–F, 5C–E, 6C, E, 7E). The large size of most specimens in Agupta is second only to Larissimus, which is the largest known Microgastrinae genus (Nixon 1965).

Figure 1. 

Agupta danyi female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths.

Host unknown.

The known species are found in the Australasian and Oriental regions.

Three of the species described below have DNA barcodes available, corresponding to BINs BOLD:ADE1110 and BOLD:ADE1550. There are at least 25 additional BINs that cluster as a group and likely represent additional species of Agupta; however, they are not described in this paper. Overall, the Agupta BINs are clearly separated from dozens of other “Choeras s.l.” sequences in BOLD.

The genus name refers to and honors the Indian braconid expert Ankita Gupta in recognition of her significant contributions to the knowledge of Microgastrinae and other parasitoid wasp groups of India. It has been a pleasure to collaborate with Ankita over the past few years and we hope she continues to shine as one of the best Indian taxonomists. The gender of the genus is neuter.

We describe below four new species for the genus. However, as the molecular data suggests, there are probably dozens of additional species awaiting description. The four new species can be separate using the following key.

Female, Malaysia, RMNH.

MALAYSIA:SE SABAH/nr Danum Valley Field C./WON1, Mal. trap 5, c 150m/2–23.viii.1987, RMNH’87/C.v.Achterberg &D.Kennedy. Second label: CNC497189.

MALAYSIA, South East Sabah, near Danum Valley, Field C, 150m.

Malaysia. (1♀ CNC), Sabah, SE Sabah nr Danum Valley Field C., 150m, Malaise trap, 19.iv–22.v.1988, coll. C.v. Achterberg & T. Burghouts, Voucher code: CNC497186; (1♂ RMNH), SE Sabah nr Danum Valley Field C., 150m, Malaise trap, 20.vi–12.vii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher code: CNC497188; (1♂ 1♀ RMNH), near Danum Valley Field C, 150m, Malaise trap, 15.iv–15.v.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher codes: CNC924662, CNC924666; (2♀ RMNH), 20.ii–19.iii.1988, coll. C.v. Achterberg & T. Burghouts, Voucher codes: CNC924663, CNC924664; (1♂ RMNH), 22.xi–4.xii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher code: CNC924665; (1♀ RMNH), 23.viii-13.xi.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher code: CNC924661; (1♀ RMNH), near Danum Valley, Field C, 150m, Malaise trap, 26.x–22.xi.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC924660.

The dark brown color of wing veins separates this species from A. solangeae and A. raymondi, both of which have most veins golden-yellow. The lighter color (yellow-orange or yellow-white) of mesosoma and first two pairs of legs will in turn differentiate A. danyi from A. jeanphilippei, which has body mostly dark brown to reddish-brown.

Female. Head and most of metasoma dorsally dark brown; mesosoma yellow-orange; first two pairs of legs mostly yellow-white, third pair mostly dark brown (except for anterior 0.6 of metatibia yellow-white); scape and pedicel yellow, flagellomeres light to dark brown; wings with veins dark brown. Head relatively elongate. Face, clypeus and labrum with coarse and dense punctures. Face projection between antennal base with median carina. Malar line relatively long. Mouth parts elongate, including bilobate glossa. First few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed (so that at times three rows could be distinguished but other times rows are not clearly defined). Anteromesoscutum relatively long (longer than maximum width). Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 4–5 strong crenulae. Propodeum with strongly raised median carina which has strong lateral carinae radiating across its length. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Fore wing vein (RS+M)b much longer than areolet width. Metacoxa smooth and relatively long (reaching beyond posterior margin of T3). T1 relatively strongly narrowing from anterior margin to half of tergite, then parallel sided up to posterior margin; anterior half mostly smooth, strongly concave and with central sulcus; posterior half punctured and a polished area on posterior margin. Hypopygium folded and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and about same length of metatibia. Female body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.45 (0.40–0.43); F3 L: 0.43 (0.38–0.41); F14 L: 0.25 (0.22–0.24); F15 L: 0.22 (0.20–0.23); Malar sulcus L: 0.12 (0.12–0.13); Mandible W: 0.23 (0.20–0.23); T1 L: 1.05 (0.95–1.06); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.37 (0.33–0.35); T1 Maximum W: 0.61 (0.54–0.65); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.86 (0.79–0.93); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.88 (0.83–0.93); T2 L: 0.37 (0.32–0.38); Metafemur L: 1.63 (1.68–1.76); Metafemur W: 0.60 (0.56–0.60); Metatibia L: 2.22 (2.12–2.28); Inner spur L: 0.84 (0.79–0.92); Outer spur L: 0.43 (0.38–0.43); First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.44 (1.34–1.40); Ovipositor sheaths L: 2.17 (2.11–2.52); Body L: 6.19 (5.15–6.00); Fore wing L: 6.19 (5.40–6.13). Ovipositor sheaths L is approximate for 5 specimens. Fore wing L is approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. As female, but propodeum and metapleuron slightly darker in color. Specimens are also slightly smaller (body and fore wing lengths around 0.7 mm smaller than in female specimens. Male body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.43; F3 L: 0.43; F14 L: 0.38; F15 L: 0.34; Malar sulcus L: 0.13; Mandible W: 0.23; T1 L: 1.00; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.30; T1 maximum W: 0.58; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.80; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.85; T2 L: 0.36; Metafemur L: 1.59; Metafemur W: 0.57; Metatibia L: 71.98; Inner spur L: 0.88; Outer spur L: 0.39; First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.33; Body L: 5.45; Fore wing L: 5.55.

Figure 2. 

Agupta danyi female paratype CNC497186. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Figure 3. 

Agupta danyi male paratype CNC497188. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Host unknown.

Malaysia, Sabah.

The holotype (sequence AAHYM352-16 in BOLD) rendered a partial DNA barcode (369 bp) which represents a unique species (when compared with 35,000+ sequences of Microgastrinae available in BOLD).

The second author dedicates this species to her husband Dany Girard, as an appreciation for his love, many years of shared magical moments and wonderful trips.

Female, Malaysia, RMNH.

MALAYSIA:SE SABAH/nr Danum Valley Field C./WON1, Mal. trap 5, c 150m/20.ii-19.iii.1988, RMNH’89/C.v.Achterberg & T.Burghouts. Second label: CNC497192.

MALAYSIA, South East Sabah, near Danum Valley Field C, 150m.

Malaysia. (1♂ CNC), Sabah, SE Sabah nr Danum Valley Field C., 150m, Malaise trap, 20–26.iii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher codes: CNC497191; (1♂1♀ RMNH), near Danum Valley Field C, 150m, Malaise trap, 13.ix-4.x.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher codes: CNC924648, CNC924654; (1♂ RMNH), 14–20.iii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC924655; (1♂ RMNH), 20.vi–12.vii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher code: CNC924647; (2♀ RMNH), 22.v–16.vi.1988, coll. C.v. Achterberg & T. Burghouts, Voucher codes: CNC924650, CNC924651; (1♂ RMNH), 24.ii–18.iii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC924653; (1♂ 1♀ RMNH), 140m, Malaise trap, 24.ii-24.iii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher codes: CNC924649, CNC924652; (4♂ RMNH), 150m, Malaise trap, 26.iii–19.iv.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher codes: CNC924646, CNC924656, CNC924658, CNC924659; (1♂ RMNH), 5–26.v.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg & D. Kennedy, Voucher code: CNC924657.

The dark brown color of wing veins separates this species from A. solangeae and A. raymondi, both of which have most veins golden-yellow. The body mostly dark brown to reddish-brown will in turn differentiate A. jeanphilippei from A. danyi, which has a lighter color (yellow-orange or yellow-white) of mesosoma and first two pairs of legs.

Female. Head and most of metasoma dorsally dark brown to black; mesosoma dark brown to black, except for anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc reddish-brown; first pair of legs mostly yellow-orange, second pair mostly brown but with anterior 0.6 of mesotibia white, third pair mostly dark brown to black (except for central yellow-white band on metatibia); scape yellow, pedicel and flagellomeres brown; wings with veins dark brown. Head relatively elongate. Face, clypeus and labrum with coarse and dense punctures. Face projection between antennal base with median carina. Malar line relatively long. Mouth parts elongate, including bilobate glossa. First few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed (so that at times three rows could be distinguished but other times rows are not clearly defined). Anteromesoscutum relatively long (longer than maximum width). Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 4–5 strong crenulae. Propodeum with strongly raised median carina which has strong lateral carinae radiating across its length. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Fore wing vein (RS+M)b much longer than areolet width. Metacoxa smooth and relatively long (reaching beyond posterior margin of T3). T1 relatively strongly narrowing from anterior margin to half of tergite, then parallel sided up to posterior margin; anterior half mostly smooth, strongly concave and with central sulcus; posterior half punctured and a polished area on posterior margin. Hypopygium folded and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and about same length of metatibia. Female body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.42 (0.41–0.42); F3 L: 0.41 (0.38–0.40); F14 L: 0.25 (0.22–0.24); F15 L: 0.23 (0.21–0.22); Malar sulcus L: 0.12 (0.09–0.13); Mandible W: 0.23 (0.20–0.22); T1 L: 1.09 (0.99–1.07); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.33 (0.31–0.37); T1 maximum W: 0.61 (0.59–0.62); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.96 (0.89–1.00); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.95 (0.92–0.97); T2 L: 0.36 (0.33–0.37); Metafemur L: 1.79 (1.67–1.76); Metafemur W: 0.61 (0.58–0.59); Metatibia L: 2.30 (2.14–2.28); Inner spur L: 0.86 (0.81–0.88); Outer spur L: 0.38 (0.40–0.43); First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.45 (1.34–1.46); Ovipositor sheaths L: 2.41 (2.24–2.41); Body L: 5.40 (4.60–6.38); Fore wing L: 6.19 (5.70–6.25). Ovipositor sheaths L is approximate for 4 specimens. Maximum W of T1 is approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. As female, but general body color darker (including most mesosoma black, and smaller central band centrally in metatibia), and pedicel yellow. Male body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.45; F3 L: 0.43; F14 L: 0.36; F15 L: 0.34; Malar sulcus L: 0.13; Mandible W: 0.23; T1 L: 0.98; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.28; T1 maximum W: 0.59; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.86; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.80; T2 L: 0.40; Metafemur L: 1.63; Metafemur W: 0.54; Metatibia L: 1.98; Inner spur L: 0.83; Outer spur L: 0.33; First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.31; Body L: 6.25; Fore wing L: 5.70.

Figure 4. 

Agupta jeanphilippei female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Figure 5. 

Agupta jeanphilippei male paratype CNC497191. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Host unknown.

Malaysia, Sabah.

One male paratype (CNC497191) rendered an almost complete DNA barcode (615 bp), which represents a unique BIN (BOLD:ADE1110), with 5.4% of bp difference compared to the next species in BOLD, which is another Agupta species.

The second author dedicates this species to her brother Jean-Philippe Boudreault as an appreciation for his love, fun conversations, good laughs and shared memories. Jean-Philippe has been bugging me to have a species named in his honor for over two years now, so here it is!

Female, Malaysia, RMNH.

MALAYSIA-SW SABAH/nr Long Pa Sia (West)/c. 1010m, 1–4.IV.1987/Mal. trap 1, RMNH’87/C.v.Achterberg. Second label: CNC497187.

MALAYSIA, South West Sabah, near Long Pa Sia (West), 1010m.

The golden-yellow color of most veins separates this species from A. danyi and A. jeanphilippei (both of which have wing veins dark brown). The lighter colour of body, with mesosoma mostly yellow-orange and metasoma with extensive white areas, will in turn differentiate A. raymondi from A. solangeae (which has the body mostly dark brown).

Female. Head and most of metasoma dorsally dark brown (except for white on posterior 0.2–0.3 of T1, T2 and T3 laterally, and most laterotergites); mesosoma mostly yellow-orange (except for dark brown on posterior 0.4 of mesopleuron and posterior half of metapleuron); first pair of legs mostly yellow-orange, second and third pairs mostly brown but with anterior 0.6 of mesotibia white; scape and pedicel bright yellow-white, flagellomeres light to dark brown; wings with most veins golden-yellow (except for pterostigma and veins r, 2RS, 2M and 3RSa). Head relatively elongate. Face, clypeus and labrum with coarse and dense punctures. Face projection between antennal base with median carina. Malar line relatively long. Mouth parts elongate, including bilobated glossa. First few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed (so that at times three rows could be distinguished but other times rows are not clearly defined). Anteromesoscutum relatively long (longer than maximum width). Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 6 strong crenulae. Propodeum with strongly raised median carina which has strong lateral carinae radiating across its length. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Fore wing vein (RS+M)b much longer than areolet width. Metacoxa smooth and relatively long (reaching beyond posterior margin of T3). T1 relatively strongly narrowing from anterior margin to half of tergite, then parallel sided up to posterior margin; anterior half mostly smooth, strongly concave and with central sulcus; posterior half punctured and a polished area on posterior margin. Hypopygium folded and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and slightly longer than metatibia length. Female body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.40; F3 L: 0.38; F14 L: 0.22; F15 L: 0.21; Malar sulcus L: 0.13; Mandible W: 0.20; T1 L: 1.01; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.30; T1 maximum W: 0.58; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.75; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.80; T2 L: 0.38; Metafemur L: 1.65; Metafemur W: 0.54; Metatibia L: 2.10; Inner spur L: 0.80; Outer spur L: 0.38; First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.36; Ovipositor sheaths L: 2.37; Body L: 5.70; Fore wing L: 6.19.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 6. 

Agupta raymondi female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Mesosoma dorsal E Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal F Ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths.

Host unknown.

Malaysia, Sabah.

The holotype rendered an almost complete DNA barcode (596 bp), which represents a unique BIN (BOLD:ADE1550), with 5.3% of bp difference compared to the next species in BOLD, which is another Agupta species. However, the sequence is similar to that of the holotype of A. solangeae, in spite of clear morphological differences between the two species. It is possible that this situation is a lab contamination, but sequencing of more specimens from both species will be needed to determine whether this is the case or not.

The second author dedicates this species to her father Raymond Boudreault, as an appreciation for his love, fun and fascinating conversations, good laughs and tremendous kindness.

Female, Malaysia, RMNH.

MALAYSIA-SW SABAH/nr Long Pa Sia (East)/c.1000m, 1–13.IV.1987/Mal. trap 5, RMNH’87/C.v.Achterberg. Second label: CNC497193.

MALAYSIA, South West Sabah, near Long Pa Sia (East), 1000m.

Malaysia. (1♀ CNC), MALAYSIA: Sabah, SW Sabah nr Long Pa Sia, Payakalaba, 1010m, Malaise trap, 25.xi–1.xii.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC497190; (2♀ RMNH), near Long Pa Sia (East), 1000m, Malaise trap, 1–13.iv.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher codes: CNC924643, CNC924644.

The golden-yellow color of most veins separates this species from A. danyi and A. jeanphilippei (both of which have wing veins dark brown). The darker body color, mostly dark brown, will in turn differentiate A. solangeae from A. raymondi (which has a lighter coloured body, with mesosoma mostly yellow-orange and metasoma with extensive white areas).

Body mostly dark brown (except for white laterotergites 1–3); first pair of legs mostly yellow-orange or yellow-brown, second and third pairs mostly brown (except for anterior 0.3 of mesotibia and anterior 0.5 of metatibia white); scape and pedicel yellow-brown, flagellomeres brown; wings with most veins golden-yellow (except for pterostigma and veins r, 2RS, 2M and 3RSa). Head relatively elongate. Face, clypeus and labrum with coarse and dense punctures. Face projection between antennal base with median carina. Malar line relatively long. Mouth parts elongate, including bilobate glossa. First few flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed (so that at times three rows could be distinguished but other times rows are not clearly defined). Anteromesoscutum relatively long (longer than maximum width). Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 5–6 strong crenulae. Propodeum with strongly raised median carina which has strong lateral carinae radiating across its length. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Fore wing vein (RS+M)b much longer than areolet width. Metacoxa smooth and relatively long (reaching beyond posterior margin of T3). T1 relatively strongly narrowing from anterior margin to half of tergite, then parallel sided up to posterior margin; anterior half mostly smooth, strongly concave and with central sulcus; posterior half punctured and a polished area on posterior margin. Hypopygium folded and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and slightly longer than metatibia length. Female body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.43 (0.40–0.43); F3 L: 0.41 (0.37–0.41); F14 L: 0.23 (0.21–0.24); F15 L: 0.21 (0.20–0.22); Malar sulcus L: 0.13 (0.12–0.13); Mandible W: 0.23 (0.20–0.23); T1 L: 1.10 (1.00–1.05); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.33 (0.33–0.36); T1 maximum W: 0.62 (0.57–0.58); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.83 (0.83–0.89); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.84 (0.81–0.91); T2 L: 0.38 (0.33–0.38); Metafemur L: 1.76 (1.71–1.76); Metafemur W: 0.62 (0.55–0.58); Metatibia L: 2.36 (2.16–2.28); Inner spur L: 0.88 (0.80–0.84); Outer spur L: 0.41 (0.37–0.42); First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.44 (1.43–1.49); Ovipositor sheaths L: 2.62 (2.49–2.59); Body L: 6.63 (5.55–6.25); Fore wing L: 6.56 (5.95–6.06). Ovipositor sheaths L is approximate for 2 specimens. Maximum W of T1, T1 L, T1 W at apex, T2 L, T2 W at base and T2 W at apex are approximate for one specimen.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 7. 

Agupta solangeae female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Figure 8. 

Agupta solangeae female paratype CNC497190. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Propodeum E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths.

Host unknown.

Malaysia, Sabah.

The holotype rendered an almost complete DNA barcode (625 bp), which represents a unique BIN (BOLD:ADE1550), with 5.3% of bp difference compared to the next species in BOLD, which is another Agupta species. See comments under previous species about similarities of DNA sequences from both species.

The second author dedicates this species to her mother Solange Nourry, as an appreciation for her love, nice conversations, great generosity and shared sweet moments.

Austinicotesia indonesiensis Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head with mouth relatively narrow, resulting in a relatively very large (but rather transverse) malar line (Figs 9B, 10B). Distance between tentorial pits 0.4 × width of head at that same height. Palpi elongate, reaching beyond pronotum when extended (Fig. 9A). Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much longer than width of flagellomeres, and clearly longer than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera. Pronotum dorsally with a deep central notch and strong punctures on posterior margin (Figs 9H, 10E). Pronotum laterally with only ventral groove present. Anteromesoscutum with relatively deep punctures, each with one seta in the middle (Figs 9H, 10E). Propodeum with strongly defined and raised carinae, delimiting an areola (on posterior half) and a central carina (on anterior half), as well as transverse carinae that fork around spiracles (Figs 9F, 10D, E). Fore wing without areolet, with vein 2RS much longer than vein r. Pterostigma relatively very thin, its length at least 3.5 × its maximum width (Fig. 9D). Hind wing with vein 2r-m absent (Fig. 10C). Hind wing with vannal lobe fully setose. Metacoxa relatively short, not surpassing posterior margin of T2 (Fig. 9A). Metafemur relatively short and thick (Fig. 9A). Metatibia spurs very short, less than 0.3 × length of first segment of metatarsus (Fig. 9A). T1 widening towards posterior margin, and with a strong hump centrally followed by a deep, excavated area which is delimited by strong carinae (Figs 9G, F, 10D, E). Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length (Fig. 9G).

Figure 9. 

Austinicotesia indonesiensis female holotype. A Habitus B Head fronto-ventral C Head frontal D Fore wing E Ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths F Propodeum and tergite 1 G Metasoma dorsal H Head and mesosoma, dorsal.

From a morphological perspective, this genus could only be confused with Austrocotesia (based on similar palpi length, anteromesoscutum sculpture, propodeum carination pattern, hind wing lacking vein 2r-m, and uniformly sclerotized hypopygium). But there are a number of features separating both genera. Austinicotesia has a central notch dorsally on pronotum which is almost unique within Microgastrinae (as far as we know it is only present in a couple of Miropotes species, see Fernandez-Triana et al. 2014c); fore wing without areolet (areolet present in Austrocotesia); fore wing with pterostigma relatively thin and long, 3.5 × as long as wide (pterostigma much less than 3.0 × as long as wide in Austrocotesia); fore wing vein 2RS much longer, around 1.5 ×, than vein r (fore wing vein 2RS much shorter, around 0.5 ×, than vein r in Austrocotesia); metafemur relatively thick and stout (of more normal proportions in Austrocotesia); T1 widening towards posterior margin and with strong hump followed by deeply excavated area and strong carinae (T1 more or less parallel-sided or narrowing towards posterior margin and without hump or excavate area in Austrocotesia); and T2 mostly smooth (usually mostly sculptured in Austrocotesia). Still, the two genera seem to be related and additional studies, especially molecular, might change in the future our current understanding of these two taxa.

Host unknown.

The known species are found in the Australasian region (Indonesia and Papua New Guinea).

No molecular data available.

The genus name refers to and honors the Australian braconid expert Andrew Austin in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of Microgastrinae and other parasitoid wasp groups from Australasia and other regions. The second part of the genus name refers to its putative relationship with Austrocotesia. The gender of the genus is neuter.

We describe below two new species for the genus. Three other specimens we saw in collections have some morphological differences, and might represent up to two additional species. However, as the material available to us for study is limited (and the morphological differences are rather subtle) we prefer to consider only two species for the time being. They can be separate using the following key.

Female, Indonesia, RMNH.

INDONESIA:S Halmahera/20 km S Payahe, Sagutora/Mal. trap 13, c 115 m/18.ii-18.iii.1995/C.v.Achterberg, R. de Vries &/Y.Yasir, RMNH’95. Second label: CNC878550.

INDONESIA, South Halmahera, 20 km South of Payahe, Sagutora, 115 m.

Indonesia. (1♀ CNC) South Halmahera, 20km S Payahe, Sagutora, 175m, Malaise trap, 18.ii-18.iii.1995, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Y. Yasir & R. de Vries, Voucher code: CNC878551.

Austinicotesia indonesiensis body coloration is generally lighter than that of A. papuanus (labrum orange, palpi white, with all tarsi, procoxa and mesocoxa, protibia and most of mesotibia yellow-brown) and by having wings hyaline. It also has anteromesoscutum punctures relatively closer (separation between punctures 1.0–2.0 × puncture diameter), and the joining of veins r and 2Rs is strongly angulated.

Female. Head, mesosoma, legs (see below for exceptions) and anterior half of T1 mostly black, rest of metasoma mostly dark or light brown; palpi and apical metatarsomeres white, labrum and anterior metatarsomere light yellow-brown; wings with veins and pterostigma mostly brown to light brown. Head with mouth relatively narrow, resulting in a relatively very large (but rather transverse) malar line. Face shiny but with sparse, uniformly distributed and shallow punctures. Distance between tentorial pits 0.4 × width of head at that same height. Labrum somewhat depressed. Mandibles relatively small. Glossa elongate. Palpi elongate, reaching beyond pronotum when extended. Antenna heavily setose, setae relatively long. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much longer than width of flagellomeres, and clearly longer than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera. Pronotum dorsally with a deep central notch and strong punctures on posterior margin. Pronotum laterally with only ventral groove present. Anteromesoscutum with deep punctures, each with one seta in the middle; separation between punctures 1.0–2.0 × puncture diameter. Propodeum with strongly defined and raised carinae, delimiting an areola (on posterior half) and a central carina (on anterior half), as well as transverse carinae that fork around spiracles. Fore wing without areolet, with vein 2RS much longer than vein r (joining of both veins strongly angulated). Pterostigma relatively very thin, its length at least 3.5 × its maximum width. Hind wing with vein 2r-m absent. Hind wing with vannal lobe fully setose. Metacoxa relatively short, not surpassing posterior margin of T2. Metafemur relatively short (less than 1.3 × as long as metacoxa) and thick (its length 2.7–3.0 × its width). Metatibia spurs very short, less than 0.3 × length of first segment of metatarsus. T1 widening towards posterior margin, and with a strong hump centrally followed by a deep, excavated area which is delimited by strong carinae. T2 mostly smooth, with lateral margins strongly defined. T3+ entirely smooth. Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.23 (0.19); F3 L: 0.23 (0.20); F14 L: 0.11; F15 L: 0.10; Malar sulcus L: 0.07 (0.06); Mandible W: 0.08 (0.06); T1 L: 0.39 (0.34); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.18 (0.16); T1 maximum W: 0.21 (0.19); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.21 (0.18); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.20 (0.20); T2 L: 0.12 (0.10); Metafemur L: 0.58 (0.52); Metafemur W: 0.19 (0.19); Metatibia L: 0.89 (0.67); Inner spur L: 0.14 (0.13); Outer spur L: 0.12 (0.12); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.41 (0.31); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.54 (0.39); Body L: 2.75 (2.28); Fore wing L: 2.50 (2.22).

Male. Unknown.

Host unknown.

Indonesia.

No molecular data available.

Named after the country of the type locality.

Female, Papua New Guinea, MNHN.

Papua New Guinea./Mount Wilhelm, Plot 3/5.72090°S, 145.27150°E,/1200m, 25–26.X.2012,. Second label: MT, understorey, Philip,/MAL-MW1200C-01/16-/d01, CNC924668. Third label: CNC924668.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA, Mount Wilhelm, Plot 3, 5.72090°S, 145.27150°E, 1200m, understorey.

Papua New Guinea. (1♀ CNC), Madang, Mount Wilhelm, Plot 1, -5.720874, 145.269500, 1200m, understory, Malaise trap, 1–2.xi.2012, coll. Philip, Alois, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924672; (1♂ MNHN), Mount Wilhelm, Plot 3, -5.720903 145.271500, 1200m, understory, Malaise trap, 25–26.x.2012, coll. Philip, Alois, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924674; (1♂ MNHN), -5.732514, 145.256800, 700m, understory, Malaise trap, 28–29.x.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924676; (1♂ MNHN), 3–4.xi.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924669; (1♀ MNHN), 5–6.xi.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924670; (1♀ MNHN), -5.720903, 145.271500, 1200m, understory, Malaise trap, 8–9.xi.2012, coll. Philip, Alois, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924671; (1♂ MNHN), Mount Wilhelm, Plot 4, -5.731961, 145.252200, 700m, understory, Malaise trap, 25–26.x.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924677; (1♂ MNHN), 31.x–1.xi.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924673; (1♂ MNHN), Mount Wilhelm, plot 4, -5.731961 145.252200, 700m, understory, Malaise trap, 25–26.x.2012, coll. Keltim, Uma, Novotny & Leponce, Voucher code: CNC924675.

Austinicotesia papuanus body coloration is generally darker than that of A. indonesiensis (labrum, palpi and legs mostly dark brown to black) and by having wings slightly infumated. It also has anteromesoscutum punctures relatively sparser (separation between punctures 2.0–4.0 × puncture diameter), and the joining of veins r and 2Rs is not angulated.

Female. Body mostly dark brown to black (except for yellow-brown protarsus, ventral face of procoxa, and some apical segments of palpi); wings slightly infumated, with veins and pterostigma brown. Head with mouth relatively narrow, resulting in a relatively very large (but rather transverse) malar line. Face shiny but with sparse, uniformly distributed and shallow punctures. Distance between tentorial pits 0.4 × width of head at that same height. Labrum somewhat depressed. Mandibles relatively small. Glossa slightly elongate. Palpi elongate, reaching beyond pronotum when extended. Antenna heavily setose, setae relatively long. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much longer than width of flagellomeres, and clearly longer than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera. Pronotum dorsally with a deep central notch and strong punctures on posterior margin. Pronotum laterally with only ventral groove present. Anteromesoscutum with deep punctures, each with one seta in the middle; separation between punctures 2.0–4.0 × puncture diameter. Propodeum with strongly defined and raised carinae, delimiting an areola (on posterior half) and a central carina (on anterior half), as well as transverse carinae that fork around spiracles. Fore wing without areolet, with vein 2RS much longer than vein r (but joining of both veins not angulated). Pterostigma relatively very thin, its length at least 3.5 × its maximum width. Hind wing with vein 2r-m absent. Hind wing with vannal lobe fully setose. Metacoxa relatively short, not surpassing posterior margin of T2. Metafemur relatively short (less than 1.3 × as long as metacoxa) and thick (its length 2.6–2.8 × its width). Metatibia spurs very short, less than 0.3 × length of first segment of metatarsus. T1 more or less parallel-sided, and with a strong hump centrally followed by a deep, excavated area which is delimited by strong carinae. T2 mostly smooth, with lateral margins well defined. T3+ entirely smooth. Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.19 (0.20–0.22); F3 L: 0.18 (0.21); F14 L: 0.08 (0.09–0.10); F15 L: 0.08 (0.09); Malar sulcus L: 0.04 (0.05–0.07); Mandible W: 0.07 (0.08–0.11); T1 L: 0.30 (0.32–0.35); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.14 (0.15–0.18); T1 maximum W: 0.14 (0.15–0.18); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.14 (0.16–0.20); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.27 (0.24–0.29); T2 L: 0.11 (0.09–0.16); Metafemur L: 0.50 (0.49–0.63); Metafemur W: 0.18 (0.19–0.23); Metatibia L: 0.69 (0.68–0.81); Inner spur L: 0.13 (0.12–0.16); Outer spur L: 0.09 (0.08–0.13); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.32 (0.27–0.38); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.33 (0.38–0.43); Body L: 1.76 (2.08–2.26); Fore wing L: 2.24 (2.22–2.60). Maximum W of T1 is taken at posterior margin of T1 where it is the largest for 4 specimens. T1 L is approximate for 1 specimen. One specimen has no head.

Male. As female.

Figure 10. 

Austinicotesia papuanus female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal E Head and mesosoma , dorsal.

Host unknown.

Papua New Guinea.

No molecular data available.

Named after the country of the type locality.

Billmasonius cienci Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head and mesosoma mostly smooth, at most with areas with sparse and shallow punctures. Posteromedian band of scutellum smooth. Propodeum entirely smooth but with partial median carina defined posteriorly (Fig. 11E). Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Unique T1 shape (better illustrated in Fig. 11D–F), with relatively wide anterior 0.6 and strongly narrowed posterior 0.4, so that widest part of tergite (near anterior margin) is around 4.0 × narrowest width (along posterior 0.4). Anterior 0.6 of T1 mostly desclerotized (only with lateral margins and narrow central strip sclerotized), a totally unique pattern within Microgastrinae. Area surrounding spiracles on laterotergite 2 partially sclerotized and same color than T2, giving the impression of T2 having “three peaks” (the largest and central one being the actual T2, the two smallest and lateral ones being the area surrounding spiracles on laterotergites (better illustrated in Fig. 11E–F). T4-7 with thin desclerotized area medially near posterior margin, giving the appearance of terga being pushed forward medially (Fig. 11E). Hypopygium medially desclerotized, with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths clearly shorter than metatibia length.

Figure 11. 

Billmasonius cienci female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head, mesosoma and tergite 1, dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum and Tergites 1 to 2.

The shape and degree of sclerotization of T1 and T2 are unusual among known species of Microgastrinae. A somewhat similar shape of T1 is also found in Tobleronius, another genus described below, but the latter genus is completely unrelated (based on characters of the scutellar complex, very different carination pattern of propodeum, shape of T4–T7, and wing venation). Billmasonius does not seem to have any close or clear relationship to any described genera in the subfamily.

Host unknown.

The only species known is found in the Oriental region (Thailand).

The DNA barcode of the holotype specimen (BIN BOLD:AAH1264) is very unique, 10.4% different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD.

The genus name refers to and honors the Canadian braconid expert William R. M. Mason, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the knowledge of Microgastrinae and other parasitoid wasps of the world. Although the first author never had the opportunity to meet him, Bill has been an inspiration for many years to continue working on this group. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

THAILAND, Chiang Rai,/Doi Luang Nat. Park,/Namptok Champatong, Phayao,/19.217, 99.733, 620 m/CNCH2057. Second label: CNCH2057.

THAILAND, Chiang Rai Province, Doi Luang National Park, Namptok Champatong, Phayao, 19.217, 99.733, 620 m.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Head and mesosoma dark brown to black; metasoma mostly light brown (but T1 with yellow and white areas, and T2 dark brown); scape and pedicel yellow, flagellomeres brown; legs yellow (except for darker metatarsomeres); wings with veins mostly brown. Head and mesosoma mostly smooth, at most with areas with sparse and shallow punctures. Eyes, on frontal view, slightly convergent ventrally. Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively deep and with seven strong costulae. Posteromedian band of scutellum smooth. Propodeum entirely smooth but with partial median carina defined posteriorly. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Unusual T1 shape (better illustrated in Figs 11D–E), with relatively wide anterior 0.6 and strongly narrowed posterior 0.4, so that the widest part of the tergite (near its anterior margin) is around 3.0 × its narrowest width (along its posterior 0.4). Anterior 0.6 of T1 mostly desclerotized (only with lateral margins and narrow central strip sclerotized), a totally unique pattern within Microgastrinae. T2 trapezoidal (subtriangular), its median length 0.3 × its width at posterior margin. Area surrounding spiracles on laterotergite 2 partially sclerotized and same color than T2, giving the impression of T2 having “three peaks” (the largest and central one being the actual T2, the two smallest and lateral ones being the area surrounding spiracles on laterotergites (better illustrated in Figs 11E–F). T4-7 with thin desclerotized area medially near posterior margin, giving the appearance of terga being pushed forward medially (Fig. 11E). Hypopygium medially desclerotized, with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths 0.7 × metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.20; F3 L: 0.18; F14 L: 0.09; F15 L: 0.08; Malar sulcus L: 0.04; Mandible W: 0.08; T1 L: 0.38; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.08; T1 maximum W: 0.21; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.05; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.34; T2 L: 0.11; Metafemur L: 0.63; Metafemur W: 0.35; Metatibia L: 0.78; Inner spur L: 0.19; Outer spur L: 0.15; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.34; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.58; Body L: 1.89; Fore wing L: 2.26.

Male. Unknown.

Host unknown.

Thailand.

The DNA barcode of the holotype specimen (BIN BOLD:AAH1264) is very unique, 10.4% different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD.

Named after the Canadian National Collection of insects in Ottawa, Canada, in recognition of the outstanding and important collection of 18+ million insect specimens that institution holds, including what is probably the largest and most complete Microgastrinae collection in the world. The acronym “CNC”, which is widely used to refer to that institution, is pronounced in English as “Cee-En-Cee”, approximately the same as the pronunciation in Latin of the species name “cienci” would be.

Carlmuesebeckius smithsonian Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Flagellomeres with three rows of placodes. Pronotum dorsally of normal proportions, not enlarged, its median length (in dorsal view) thinner than width of flagellomeres. Mesosoma, except for propodeum, mostly smooth. Propodeum with areola strongly defined by sharp and raised carinae, transverse carinae forking around big spiracles (partially visible in Fig. 12D, as the bright yellow color of the specimen difficulties the depiction of the carinae in the picture). T1 with longitudinal striae on posterior 0.6, and with a strong and raised median carina for most of its length (Fig. 12E). T2+ smooth. Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe more or less straight and entirely setose. Tarsal claws pectinate, with two teeth near base. Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized (Fig. 12A). Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length. Ovipositor bulging near apex and with two subapical serrate teeth on lower (first) valvulae.

Figure 12. 

Carlmuesebeckius smithsonian female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Mesosoma dorsal E Metasoma, ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths, dorsal.

Apical part of ovipositor with a node and two ventral teeth in the lower valvae (probably unique within microgastrines, at most similar to ovipositor of Ohenri), and T1 with strong and raised median carina on most of its length (also probably unique within the subfamily). Other morphological features are not commonly found within Microgastrinae, and their combination in Carlmuesebeckius is highly unusual: flagellomeres with placodes irregularly distributed in three rows (restricted to a few genera, not necessarily related to each other), tarsal claws pectinate (uncommon in the subfamily, although present in a few species from several genera), vannal lobe fully setose, mesosoma mostly smooth, and propodeum fully areolated and with strong carinae forking around spiracles. The relationships of Carlmuesebeckius with other genera of Microgastrinae are not clear at present, although some morphological features are related to Sathon s.str. and two new genera, Ohenri and Qrocodiledundee, described below in this paper. Carlmuesebeckius is most similar to Ohenri, based on antennal placodes distributed in three rows per flagellomere, pectinate tarsal claws, uniformly sclerotized hypopygium and ovipositor with subapical teeth; the carination pattern in the propodeum is also similar in both genera, although in Carlmuesebeckius the areola is more complete and better defined, with carinae that are strongly raised. The main differences between these two genera are that Carlmuesebeckius does not have an enlarged pronotum dorsally, the vannal lobe is setose, the mesosoma is mostly smooth, and T1 has a median, strongly raised carina (enlarged pronotum dorsally, setoseless vannal lobe, mostly sculptured mesosoma, and T1 without carinae in Ohenri).

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Afrotropical region (Madagascar).

No molecular data available.

The genus name refers to and honors the American braconid expert Carl F.W. Muesebeck in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of parasitoid wasps of the world. Muesebeck papers on Nearctic Microgastrinae are still a valid source of knowledge, even though some of those papers are almost one hundred years old. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Female, Madagascar, CAS.

nrRogezMadag./Mar.’47 900M/C. Lamberton. Second label: New Genus/Det. Ti. Ridge/W.R.M. Mason’81. Third label: CNC924667.

MADAGASCAR, near Rogez, 900m.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Body color mostly honey-yellow, except for head mostly brown (but with yellow mandibles, labrum, clypeus and face centrally), antenna with scape and pedicel yellow and flagellomeres brown. Wings slightly infumated, with most veins golden-yellow, except for brown pterostigma and fore wing veins R1, r and 2RS. Flagellomeres with three rows of placodes. Head relatively wide, with eyes slightly convergent ventrally and malar line relatively long. Pronotum dorsally of normal proportions, not enlarged, its median length (on a dorsal view) thinner than width of flagellomeres. Mesosoma, except for propodeum, mostly smooth. Propodeum with areola strongly defined by sharp and raised carinae, transverse carinae forking around big spiracles. Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe more or less straight and entirely setose. Tarsal claws pectinate, with two teeth near base. T1 with longitudinal striae on posterior 0.6, and with a strong and raised median carina for most of its length. T2+ smooth. Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length. Ovipositor bulging near apex and with two subapical serrate teeth on lower (first) valvulae. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.46; F3 L: 0.44; Malar sulcus L: 0.09; Mandible W: 0.16; T1 L: 0.75; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.49; T1 maximum W: 0.61; T2 L: 0.23; Metafemur L: 1.56; Metafemur W: 0.44; Metatibia L: 1.90; Inner spur L: 0.65; Outer spur L: 0.33; First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.05; Ovipositor sheaths L: 1.44; Body L: 4.60; Fore wing L: 5.30. T1 L is approximate.

Male. Unknown.

Host unknown.

Madagascar.

No molecular data available.

Named after the National Museum of Natural History, part of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, United States, in recognition of the outstanding and important collection of 35+ million insect specimens that institution holds, including one of the largest and most complete Microgastrinae collections in the world.

Gilbertnixonius biem Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head with relatively large tentorial pits, and very large palps (which reach well into the mesopleuron) (Fig. 13C, D). Occipital carina partially defined. Epicnemial carina partially defined. Mesopleuron and metapleuron strongly sculptured, mostly by transverse striation (Fig. 13D). Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc mostly sculptured with strong punctures (Fig. 13E). Scutellar disc with sharp carina around margins and slightly protruding posteriorly (Fig. 13D, E). Scutellar disc with rugose band of sculptured postero-medially. Propodeum with median longitudinal and transverse carinae strongly defined (Fig. 13F, G). Fore wing with relatively small, quadrangular areolet (Fig. 13A). Pterostigma mostly white-yellow, except for posterior 0.3 which is light brown. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metacoxa relatively short, not surpassing posterior margin of T2. Metatibia spines relatively short (around 0.3 × length of first segment of metatarsus). T1 with median sulcus on anterior half, posterior half relatively strongly sculptured (Fig. 13G). T2 sub-quadrate, with longitudinal striae (Fig. 13G). Hypopygium relatively short, not extending beyond last tergites. Ovipositor very short, ovipositor sheaths with very few and sparse setae near apex (Fig. 13D).

Figure 13. 

Gilbertnixonius biem female holotype. A Fore wing B Habitus C Head frontal D Mesosoma and metasoma, lateral E Head dorsal F Mesosoma dorsal G Propodeum and metasoma, dorsal.

Gilbertnixonius belongs to the Microplitini group of genera (sensu Mason 1981). It is the only genus within that group with both longitudinal and transverse carina on propodeum, but without having an areola (Alloplitis and the new genus Tobleronius described below have those carinae, although sometimes incomplete, but they also have a complete areola). The presence of an epicnemial carina is very unique, as it is only present in Microgastrinae in the unrelated genus Fornicia and in some species of Snellenius (e.g., Mason 1981, Whitfield et al. 2002, Fernandez-Triana et al. 2015); but Snellenius does not have the propodeum carination pattern of Gilbertnixonius. The presence of an incomplete occipital carina is a highly unusual feature in Microgastrinae, only shared with at some, or perhaps all, species of Alloplitis, Philoplits and Tobleronius (see a discussion of that character under the description of Tobleronius below, for more details on lineages within Microplitini having a complete or partial occipital carina).

Host unknown.

The only species known is found in the Oriental region (Thailand).

The DNA barcode of the holotype specimen (BIN BOLD:AAZ9883) is very unique, 13.2% different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD.

The genus name refers to and honors the British braconid expert Gilbert E. J. Nixon in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of parasitoid wasps of the world. Nixon papers on Microgastrinae were of capital importance in the second half of the past century, and paved the way for further studies, including the present one. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

THAILAND: Suphanburi/Pu Toei Nat. Park/Huai-Tapern, by waterfall/14°58.934'N, 99°19.31'E/Malaise trap, 14–21.2009/P. Wangkum, #3834. Second label: Philoplitis/sp. jft 1. Third label: DNA Voucher/CNCHYM/01950.

THAILAND: Suphanburi, Pu Toei National Park, Huai-Tapern, by waterfall, 4°58.934'N, 99°19.31'E.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Body mostly dark brown; palpi, scape, pedicel, most of first two pairs of legs, metacoxa, metafemur, first few laterotergites and sternites white or yellow-white; antenna with a subtle banded pattern, with first 10 flagellomeres yellow to light brown, and apical flagellomeres brown; wings hyaline, with most veins light brown, pterostigma mostly white-yellow (except for posterior 0.3 which is light brown). Head with relatively large tentorial pits (which reach well into mesopleuron). Occipital carina defined laterally (not clear in specimen if also defined dorsally). Epicnemial carina partially defined. Meso- and metapleura strongly sculptured, mostly by transverse striation. Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc mostly sculptured with strong punctures. Scutellar disc with sharp carina around margins and slightly protruding posteriorly. Scutellar disc with rugose band of sculptured postero-medially. Propodeum with median longitudinal and transverse carinae strongly defined. Fore wing with relatively small, quadrangular areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metacoxa relatively short, not surpassing posterior margin of T2. Metatibia spines relatively short (around 0.3 × length of first segment of metatarsus). T1 with median sulcus on anterior half, posterior half relatively strongly sculptured. T2 sub-quadrate, with longitudinal striae. Hypopygium relatively short, not extending beyond last tergites. Ovipositor very short, ovipositor sheaths with very few and sparse setae near apex.

F2 L: 0.20; F3 L: 0.19; F14 L: 0.10; F15 L: 0.10; Malar sulcus L: 0.09; Mandible W: 0.08; T1 L: 0.32; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.12; T1 maximum W: 0.16; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.13; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.17; T2 L: 0.12; Metafemur L: 0.59; Metafemur W: 0.18; Metatibia L: 0.79; Inner spur L: 0.11; Outer spur L: 0.09; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.32; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.14; Body L: 2.13; Fore wing L: 2.14.

Male. Unknown.

Host unknown.

Thailand.

The DNA barcode of the holotype specimen (BIN BOLD:AAZ9883) is very unique, 13.2% different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD.

Named after the Natural History Museum in London (United Kingdom) in recognition of the outstanding and important collection of 34+ million insect specimens that institution holds, including one of the largest and most complete Microgastrinae collection in the world. The old acronym of the Natural History Museum (British Museum until 1992) was commonly referred to as “BM” at the time, which is pronounced in English as “Bee-Em”, approximately the same as the pronunciation in Latin of the species name “biem” would be.

Janhalacaste winnieae Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Glossa elongate (Fig. 16B). Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc with relatively deep and close punctures. Posteromedian band of scutellum rugose (Figs 15D, 16D, 17C). Propodeum with complete transverse and longitudinal carinae, and with additional small carinae or striae on most of propodeum surface (Figs 14G, 15G, 16D, F, 17E). Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet (as in Fig. 17D). Metacoxa large, surpassing posterior margin of T3 (Figs 14E, 17E). T1 with longitudinal sulcus on anterior 0.6–0.7, posterior 0.3 with two sublateral carinae sharply defined and delimiting a slightly raised area (Figs 14E–G, 17E, F). T2 transverse, with smoother central area, slightly elevated from coarser lateral areas (Figs 14E, F, 16E, G, 17E, F). Hypopygium folded medially and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths about same length or slightly shorter than metatibia length.

Figure 14. 

Janhalacaste danieli male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Mesosoma dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Tergites 1 to 2 G Propodeum.

Figure 15. 

Janhalacaste guanacastensis female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Tergites 1 to 2 G Propodeum.

An unusual T1 within Microgastrinae, which has a longitudinal sulcus on the anterior 0.6–0.7 of its length and the posterior 0.3 has two short carinae centrally delimiting a slightly raised area. The propodeum has complete transverse and longitudinal carinae, which is rarely found in Microgastrinae (that trait has also been found in the Old World genera Beyarslania and Neoclarkinella, and in the Neotropical genus Prasmodon, all of which appear distantly related; and also in the more related Neotropical genera Mariapanteles and Pseudapanteles). Band of rugosity posteromedially on scutellum. Fore wing with very small, slit-shaped areolet. This genus is morphologically similar to Mariapanteles but differs in the posteromedian band of the scutellum being rugose, T1 with two carinae on posterior third, and fore wing with an areolet. Pseudapanteles, which is morphologically related to Mariapanteles, can be separated from Janhalacaste by all those features and also by lacking a transverse carina on propodeum.

Hosts include several species of Depressaridae.

The known species are found in the Neotropical region (Costa Rica).

The three species described below have DNA barcodes available, corresponding to the BINs BOLD:AAK9733, BOLD:AAK0117 and BOLD:ACB2460. Overall, the Janhalacaste BINs are clearly separate from the rest of Microgastrinae (more than 10% base pairs difference from the closest sequence available in BOLD).

The genus name refers to and honors the ecologists Daniel Janzen and Winnie Hallwachs, as well as Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica, for the great contributions that both have made to our understanding of Microgastrinae diversity. It is impossible to separate Dan and Winnie from ACG; thus, we are happy and honored to name a new genus of microgastrine wasps after them all. Accordingly, the first part of the genus name is a combination of the first three letters of each researcher’s last name (“Jan” from Janzen, “Hal” from Hallwachs), while the second part of the genus name includes the last six letters of the word “Guanacaste”. The gender of the genus is neuter.

We describe below three new species for the genus. They can be separated using the following key.

Male, Costa Rica, CNC.

COSTA RICA: Guanacaste,/ACG, Sector Pitilla,/Medrano, 380m,/11.01602, -85.38053,/02/06/2012/DHJPAR0049240.

COSTA RICA, Guanacaste, Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Sector Pitilla, Medrano, 380m, 11.01602, -85.38053.

This is the only species in the genus with dark (brown) metacoxa.

Male. Head and mesosoma black; metasoma mostly black to dark brown dorsally (except for T1 light yellow on anterior 0.6); metasoma mostly yellow laterally and ventrally; scape and pedicel yellow, flagellomeres mostly dark brown to black; palpi white; legs mostly yellow (except for metacoxa mostly brown); wings with veins mostly brown. Head, including eyes, mostly covered by relatively long and dense setae (except for smooth, setoseless area, centrally on occiput behind ocelli, Fig. 14D). Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc with relatively deep and close punctures, and with long, white setae. Posteromedian band of scutellum rugose. Propodeum with complete transverse and longitudinal carinae, and with additional small striae. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Metacoxa large, surpassing posterior margin of T3. T1 with longitudinal sulcus on anterior 0.6, posterior 0.3 with two sublateral carinae sharply defined. T2 transverse, with smoother central area, slightly elevated from coarser lateral areas. T2+ with relatively long, sparse, white setae, which are mostly locate laterally on terga.

Female. Unknown.

Reared from an undetermined species of Depressariidae with the interim name of “elachJanzen01 Janzen131”.

Costa Rica.

The holotype sequence belongs to BIN BOLD:ACB2460, which has 5.3% of bp differences compared to the next species in BOLD, which is Janhalacaste winnieae.

Named after Daniel Janzen, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the fields of conservation biology, tropical ecology, citizen science and public outreach, and even for helping taxonomists to be better appreciated for what they do. The first author has also been honored to work with Dan on the Microgastrinae fauna of ACG for the past six years and counting.

Female, Costa Rica, CNC.

COSTA RICA: Guanacaste,/ACG, Sector Pitilla,/Medrano, 380m, 09/04/2013,/11.01602, -85.38053,/DHJPAR0054852.

COSTA RICA, Guanacaste, Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Sector Pitilla, Medrano, 380m, 11.01602, -85.38053.

Paratype. Costa Rica. (1♂ CNC) Brasilia, Piedrona, 11.016200, -85.359000, 340m, 17.iv.2013, Voucher code: DHJPAR0052309.

This species can be separate from J. winnieae because of its almost entirely dark brown metasoma dorsally (almost entirely yellow metasoma dorsally in J. winnieae). Its yellow metacoxa in turn separates it from J. danieli (which has dark brown metacoxa). J. guanacastensis is also the species with the least defined sublateral carinae on posterior 0.3 of T1.

Female. Head and mesosoma black; metasoma mostly black to dark brown dorsally (T1 mostly yellow, except for brown, central spot on posterior margin; sometimes T3-T6 with small yellow spots laterally); metasoma mostly yellow laterally and ventrally; scape and pedicel yellow, flagellomeres mostly brown; palpi white; legs yellow; wings with veins mostly brown. Head, including eyes, mostly covered by relatively long and dense setae (except for smooth, setoseless area, centrally on occiput behind ocelli, Fig. 15D). Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc with relatively deep and close punctures, and with long, white setae. Posteromedian band of scutellum rugose. Propodeum with complete transverse and longitudinal carinae, and with additional small striae. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Metacoxa large, surpassing posterior margin of T3. T1 with longitudinal sulcus on anterior 0.6–0.7, posterior 0.3 with two sublateral carinae which are barely visible (the latter might be an artifact due to specimen condition). T2 transverse, with smoother central area, slightly elevated from coarser lateral areas. T2+ with relatively long, sparse, white setae, which are mostly locate laterally on terga. Hypopygium folded medially and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths shorter than metatibia length. Female body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.23; F3 L: 0.23; F14 L: 0.12; F15 L: 0.11; Malar sulcus L: 0.08; Mandible W: 0.11; T1 L: 0.49; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.18; T1 maximum W: 0.33; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.28; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.37; T2 L: 0.11; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.82; Body L: 2.70; Fore wing L: 2.85. Malar sulcus L and mandible W are approximate.

Male. As female, but lighter in coloration and less setose. However, those differences might be due to the available specimen being teneral. Male body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.28; F3 L: 0.27; F14 L: 0.16; F15 L: 0.15; Malar sulcus L: 0.08; Mandible W: 0.08; T1 L: 0.52; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.21; T1 maximum W: 0.38; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.27; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.42; T2 L: 0.13; Metafemur L: 0.90; Metafemur W: 0.28; Metatibia L: 1.14; Inner spur L: 0.33; Outer spur L: 0.20; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.54; Body L: 3.22; Fore wing L: 3.38.

Figure 16. 

Janhalacaste guanacastensis male paratype DHJPAR0052309. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum G Tergites 1 and 2.

Reared from five species of Depressariidae: Antaeotricha sp. (with specific interim name “Janzen146”), Filinota sp. (with specific interim name “Janzen154”), Stenoma sp. (with specific interim name “Janzen13”), and two other undetermined species with the interim names of “elachJanzen01 Janzen131” and “elachJanzen01 Janzen861”.

Costa Rica.

The holotype and paratype sequences belong to BIN BOLD:AAK9733, which has 11.6% of bp differences compared to the next species in BOLD, which is Janhalacaste danieli.

Named after Area de Conservación Guanacaste, a world icon and example of conservation of tropical ecosystems.

Female, Costa Rica, CNC.

COSTA RICA: Guanacaste,/ACG, Sector Santa Rosa,/Area Administrativa, 295m,/10.83764, -85.61871,/12/25/2008/DHJPAR0031806.

COSTA RICA, Guanacaste, Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Sector Santa Rosa, Area Administrativa, 295m, 10.83764, -85.61871.

Costa Rica. (1♀ CNC) Sector Santa Rosa, Area Administrativa, 10.837600, -85.618700, 295m, 25.xii.2008, Voucher code: DHJPAR0031795; (1♂ CNC), Sector Santa Rosa, Bosque San Emilio, 10.843900, -85.613800, 300m, 10.iv.2000, Voucher code: DHJPAR0013312.

This is the only species in the genus with metasoma mostly yellow dorsally (the two other known species have the metasoma mostly dark brown to black dorsally).

Female. Head and mesosoma black; metasoma mostly light yellow dorsally (except for posterior 0.2–0.3 of T1 and entire T2, which are dark brown to black; and small, brown spot centrally on T4+); metasoma yellow laterally and ventrally; scape and pedicel yellow, flagellomeres mostly dark brown; palpi white; legs mostly yellow (except for posterior 0.4 of metatibia and metatarsus which are dark brown to black); wings with veins mostly brown. Head, including eyes, mostly covered by relatively long and dense setae (except for smooth, setoseless area, centrally on occiput behind ocelli, Fig. 17C). Anteromesoscutum and scutellar disc with relatively deep and close punctures, and with long, white setae. Posteromedian band of scutellum rugose. Propodeum with complete transverse and longitudinal carinae, and with additional small striae. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Metacoxa large, surpassing posterior margin of T3. T1 with longitudinal sulcus on anterior 0.6, posterior 0.3 with two sublateral carinae sharply defined. T2 transverse, with smoother central area, slightly elevated from coarser lateral areas. T2+ with relatively long, sparse, white setae, which are mostly locate laterally on terga. Hypopygium folded medially and with several pleats. Ovipositor sheaths shorter than metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.25 (0.24); F3 L: 0.25 (0.23); F14 L: 0.12 (0.11); F15 L: 0.11 (0.10); Malar sulcus L: 0.05 (0.07); Mandible W: 0.09 (0.07); T1 L: 0.50 (0.50); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.17 (0.18); T1 maximum W: 0.36 (0.35); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.28 (0.27); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.38 (0.40); T2 L: 0.12 (0.10); Metafemur L: 0.89; Metafemur W: 0.26; Metatibia L: 1.13; Inner spur L: 0.33; Outer spur L: 0.17; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.56; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.67 (0.90); Body L: 2.83 (2.93); Fore wing L: 3.19 (2.95).

Male. As female.

Figure 17. 

Janhalacaste winnieae female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Mesosoma dorsal D Fore wing E Propodeum F Metasoma dorsal.

Host unknown.

Costa Rica.

The sequences of the holotype and two paratypes all belong to BIN BOLD:AAK0117, which has 5.2% of bp differences compared to the next species in BOLD, which is Janhalacaste danieli.

Named after Winnie Hallwachs, in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the fields of conservation biology, tropical ecology, citizen science and public outreach, and even for helping taxonomists to be better appreciated for what they do. The first author has also been honored to work with Winnie on the Microgastrinae fauna of ACG for the past six years and counting.

Jenopappius magyarmuzeum Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Clypeus relatively small and bulging (Figs 18B, 20B). Tentorial pits relatively large. Notauli marked by coarser sculpture than rest of anteromesoscutum (partially visible in Figs 20F, 21C). Scutoscutellar sulcus deep and with strong crenulae (Figs 18E, 20F, 21C). Propodeum without areola, but with median longitudinal carina obscured by surrounding sculpture (Figs 20F, 21E). Fore wing with four-sided areolet (second submarginal cell). Metacoxa relatively short (not surpassing posterior margin of T2). Metatibial spurs relatively short (less than half length of first segment of metatarsus) (Figs 20A, 21A). T1 longer than wide, mostly sculptured with strong longitudinal striae, but with anteromedian depression (Figs 18F, 20E, 21B, E). T2 rectangular, as long as or longer than T3, with strong longitudinal striation and a central, smooth area (median field) which is slightly more elevated than rest of tergite and it is narrowing towards posterior margin (Figs 18F, 19A, B, 20E, 21B, E). Hypopygium inflexible and not pleated. Ovipositor sheaths very short (Figs 18A, 20A).

Jenopappius clearly belongs to the Microplitini (sensu Mason 1981). It resembles Microplitis but with a strongly sculptured and rectangular T2 and a rather unique pattern of T1. Also, some Alloplitis may have somewhat similar sculpture of either T1 or T2 (but the shape of those tergites in that latter genus is very different, and the propodeum is fully areolated with strongly raised carinae). The combination of sculptured propodeum without areola, anteromedian depression of T1, and strong sculpture of T1–T2 are very unusual and will separate Jenopappius from any other known genera of Microplitini and indeed Microgastrinae.

Host unknown.

All known species are found in the Afrotropical region (Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Republic of Congo, Rwanda).

A total of 11 DNA barcodes are available, from Jenopappius magyarmuzeum. All sequences cluster together in BIN BOLD:AAH1374, and are different by 14.2 % of the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD (based on a Neighbor Joining tree built with 35,000+ Microgastrinae sequences available in BOLD as of January 2018).

The genus name refers to and honors the Hungarian braconid expert Jeno Papp, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of Braconidae of the world, and his work on Palearctic Microgastrinae. The gender of the genus is neuter.

We recognize three different species, two previously described by de Saeger (1944) and a new one described below. They can be separate using the following key.

Female, Democratic Republic of the Congo, RMCA (Musee Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium). Not examined, but original description checked.

J. aethiopica can be separated from J. niger because of shape of T1, and by having raised median area of T2 narrower than width of T1 at posterior margin. It can be distinguished from J. magyarmuzeum because it has lightered coloured legs and darker T2 and T3 (darker legs and yellow-white T2 and T3 in J. magyarmuzeum).

Host unknown.

Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda.

No molecular data available.

The species records from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda come from the original description of the species (de Saeger 1944). The record from Kenya (two female specimens) is based on specimens found in the CNC. No molecular data. The Kenyan specimens we examined have the first 2–3 sternites and laterotergites, and the first two pairs of legs mostly yellow (except for tibia and tarsi which are brown). That is slightly lighter coloured compared to the original description of J. aethiopica (where the color of those body parts is described as mostly reddish-yellow or reddish-brown), but we consider those as minor differences and thus keep all examined specimens as part of J. aethiopica.

Figure 18. 

Jenopappius aethiopica female non-type specimen CNC878534. A Habitus B Head frontal C Head dorsal D Fore wing E Mesosoma dorsal F Metasoma dorsal.

Figure 19. 

Comparison of tergites 1 and 2 in Jenopappius niger (A) and Jenopappius aethiopica (B) based on modified drawings from the original descriptions of the species (de Saeger 1944). Blue arrow shows tergite 1 narrowing (A) or widening (B) towards posterior margin. Red arrow shows end of lateral margin of tergite 1 and beginning of lateral margin of median area of tergite 2 to be almost continuous (A) or end of lateral margin of tergite 1 and beginning of lateral margin of median area of tergite 2 to be clearly separate (B).

Female, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CNC.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF/THE CONGO. Iboubikro,/Lesio-Loun Pk,; Pool,/3.27°S, 15.471°E, 340m,. Second label: 25.XI.2088, Braet &/Sharkey, BIN#BOLD:/AAH1374, CNCH2795. Third label: CNCH2795.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO, Iboubikro, Lesio-Louna Park, Pool, 3.27°S, 15.471°E, 340m.

Democratic Republic of the Congo. (2♂ CNC), Iboubikro, Lesio-Loun Pk.; Pool, -3.269931, 15.471100, 340m, 13.x.2008, coll. Braet & Sharkey, Voucher codes: CNCH3029, CNCH3037; (7♂1♀ CNC), -3.270000 15.471000, 340m, 25.xi.2008, coll. Braet & Sharkey, Voucher codes: CNCH2806, CNCH2760, CNCH2768, CNCH2775, CNCH2782, CNCH2787, CNCH2789, CNCH2807; (1♂ CNC), Iboubikro, Lesio-Loun Pk; Pool, -3.162000, 15.283000, 330m, 1.ix.2008, coll. Sharkey & Braet, Voucher code: JMIC0532.

This is the only known species in the genus with yellow-white T2 and T3. Additionally the shape of T1 would separate it from J. niger (Fig. 19A), and the shape of the median raised area on T2 (very thin and parallel-sided) would distinguish it from J. aethiopica (which has the raised area on T2 much broader anteriorly than posteriorly).

Female. Head, mesosoma and T1 black, T2–T3 yellow-white, T4+ dark brown; antenna dark brown to black; palpi brown to yellow-brown; most legs dark brown to black (except for profemur and protibia partially yellow-orange); metatibial spurs yellow-white; wings hyaline, most veins brown. Head with relatively large tentorial pits. Clypeus relatively small and bulging. Glossa relatively elongate. Most of head and mesosoma with coarse punctures. Notauli marked by deeper and coarser sculpture. Scutoscutellar sulcus deep and wide, with 4 or more strong crenulae. Scutellar disc with posteromedian band of rugosity. Propodeum strongly sculptured, with irregular pattern of carinae, but a median longitudinal carina clearly defined. Fore wing with four-sided areolet (second submarginal cell). Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metacoxa relatively short (not surpassing posterior margin of T2). Metatibial spurs relatively short (less than half length of first segment of metatarsus). T1 mostly coarsely sculptured, with strong longitudinal striae and anteromedian depression. T2 rectangular, as long as or longer than T3, with strong longitudinal striation and a central, smooth area slightly more elevated than rest of tergite (which narrows towards posterior margin). Hypopygium inflexible and not pleated. Ovipositor sheaths very short. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.23 (0.24); F3 L: 0.21 (0.23); F14 L: (0.16); Malar sulcus L: 0.10 (0.10); Mandible W: 0.08 (0.11); T1 L: 0.40 (0.38); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.30 (0.33); T1 maximum W: 0.33 (0.33); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.33 (0.34); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.41 (0.43); T2 L: 0.24 (0.24); Metafemur L: 0.72 (0.71); Metafemur W: 0.16 (0.17); Metatibia L: 1.07 (1.04); Inner spur L: 0.13 (0.12); Outer spur L: 0.13 (0.13); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.40 (0.39); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.13 (0.13); Body L: 2.73 (2.93); Fore wing L: 2.55 (2.53). Maximum W of T1 and T1 W at anterior margin are approximate for one specimen.

Male. As female.

Figure 20. 

Jenopappius magyarmuzeum female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Ovipositor and hind leg E Metasoma dorsal F Mesosoma dorsal.

Figure 21. 

Jenopappius magyarmuzeum male paratype CNCH2789. A Habitus B Tergites 1 to 3 C Mesosoma dorsal D Mesosoma lateral E Propodeum and tergites 1 to 2.

Host unknown.

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The holotype and 10 paratype sequences all belong to BIN BOLD:AAH1374, which is 14.2 % different from the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD.

Named after the Hungarian Natural History Museum, in recognition of the outstanding and important collection of 8+ million insect specimens that institution holds, including one of the largest and most complete Microgastrinae collections in the world. The species name refers to the first and last words of the Hungarian name of the museum (Magyar Természet-Tudományi Múzeum). Of further significance is that the genus of the new species is itself named after Jeno Papp, who worked in the Hungarian Natural History Museum for many years.

Female, Democratic Republic of the Congo, RMCA (Musee Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium). Not examined, but original description checked.

J. niger can be separate from the other known species of the genus because of shape of T1, and by having raised median area of T2 as wide as width of T1 at posterior margin (Fig. 19).

Host unknown.

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

No molecular data available.

The information about this species was extracted from the original description (de Saeger 1944).

Jimwhitfieldius jamesi Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Flagellomere with placodes arranged in three rows (females and males) (Figs 23F, 25G). Head posteriorly with a deep depression, behind occiput (Fig. 26E). Pale spot at base of mandible. Hypostomal carina with a projecting flange. Mesosoma mostly smooth (Figs 22E, 25E, 26E). Propodeum entirely smooth, without any carina (Figs 22D, E). Metatrochantellus with highly unusual shape (better illustrated in Fig. 23I), anteriorly with rounded projections. Relatively very large and thick inner spur in hind leg (0.8 × as long as first segment of metatarsus) (Figs 22A, 23G, J, 24A, D, 25H, 26A). Fore wing with large areolet (Figs 22C, 24A, C, 26C). Hind wing with vannal lone fully setose. Metasoma mostly smooth. Ovipositor extremely short, almost invisible externally (Figs 23H, I, 24A, 26C).

The strong depression of the head behind the occiput, the shape of the metatrochantellus, and the length and shape of the inner spur of metatibia are all highly unusual within Microgastrinae. The extremely short ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths are probably the shortest observed in the entire subfamily. The flagellomeres with three rows of placodes are rarely found among some species of a few unrelated Microgastrinae genera. The hypostomal flange is similar to some species of Prasmodon (see Fernandez-Triana et al. 2014d), although the two genera are not related at all.

Host unknown.

The known species are found in the Oriental region (Thailand, Vietnam).

A total of 19 sequences representing five BINs, BOLD:AAH1239, BOLD:AAV2073, BOLD:AAV2080, BOLD:AAV2083, and BOLD:ACE5642. Three of those BINs are only know from either one or two male specimens, whereas BOLD:AAH1239 (10 specimens) and BOLD:AAV2073 (5 specimens) are better represented.

The genus name refers to and honors the American braconid expert James B. Whitfield, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of parasitoid wasps of the world, especially Microgastrinae and their associated polydnaviruses. For the past 18 years, Jim has been a mentor for the first author, and his friendship and advice have always been very much appreciated. The gender of the genus is neuter.

All examined specimens are morphologically very similar, with minute differences in coloration (tergites 5+ with or without brown spots) and shape of T2 (more or less broadening towards posterior margin). Based on DNA barcoding, there could be up to 5 different species. However, three of those barcode-species are only represented by one or two male specimens each, and thus are not considered here (they will only be described if more material becomes available in the future). The two species described below differ slightly in morphology, their DNA barcodes have 14–18 bp different (2.1–2.8 %), and are found at different altitudinal ranges. They can be separate using the following key.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

Thailand. Trang prov./Khao Chong, Forest/Research Station.,/7.551°N, 99.79°E, 75m. Second label: 1.VIII.2005, D. Lohman,/BIN#BOLD:AAH1239,/CNCH2640. Third label: CNCH2640.

THAILAND, Trang Province, Khao Chong, Forest Research Station, 7.551°N, 99.79°E, 75m.

Thailand. (1♀ QSBG), Trang, Khao Chong Forest Research Station, 7.550556, 99.789722, 75m, xi.2005, coll. D. Lohman, Voucher code: CNC878555; (3♂ QSBG), Khaochong, 7.561000, 99.886000, 75m, Voucher codes: CNCH2136, CNCH2138, CNCH2139; (1♂ QSBG), Khoa Chong, Forest Research St., 7.551000, 99.790000, 75m, coll. D. Lohman, Voucher code: CNCH2270; (2♂ QSBG), Khoa Chong, 7.551000, 99.790000, 75m, coll. D. Lohman, Voucher codes: CNCH2041, CNCH1994; (3♀ QSBG), Trang, Nayon Khao Chong, 7.561000, 99.886000, 75m, Voucher codes: CNCH2232, CNCH2236, CNCH2239. Vietnam. (1♀ CNC), Cat Thien National Park, Dong Nal, 100m, Bird trail, Malaise trap, 15–20.v.2007, coll. C.v. Achterberg&R.de Vries, Voucher code: CNC924047; (4♂ RMNH), Cat Tien National Park, Dong Nai, 100m, Bird trail;Dong Trail, Malaise trap, 1–9.x.2005, coll. C.v. Achterberg&R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924051, CNC924052, CNC924053, CNC924054; (5♂ 2♀ RMNH), Botanical Garden;Eco-trail, Malaise trap, 13–20.v.2007, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924028, CNC924033, CNC924050, CNC924034, CNC924035, CNC924036, CNC924037; (3♂ RMNH), Lagerstroemia trail, Malaise trap, 14–20.v.2007, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924055, CNC924056, CNC924057; (7♂ RMNH), Bird trail, Malaise trap, 15–20.v.2007, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924038, CNC924039, CNC924040, CNC924041, CNC924042, CNC924043, CNC924044; (4♂ RMNH), Dong Trail, Malaise trap, 19–25.iv.2007, coll. Mai Phu Quy & Nguyen Thanh Manh, Voucher codes: CNC924029, CNC924030, CNC924031, CNC924032; (2♂ RMNH), 9–30.iv.2007, coll. M.P. Quiu & N.T. Manh , Voucher codes: CNC924058, CNC924059; (1♂ RMNH), 9.iv-13.v.2007, coll. Mai Phu Quy & Nguyen Thanh Manh, Voucher code: CNC924049; (1♂ RMNH), Dong Trail, Malaise trap, 9.iv-19.v.2007, coll. M.P. Quiu, N.T. Manh & C.V. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC924048; (2♀ RMNH), Nature reserve, Phong Dien, Thua Thien Hue, 150m, Nature reserve base camp, 15km West Phong My., Malaise trap, 23.iii-6.iv.2001, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924026, CNC924027; (2♂ RMNH), Nul Chua National Park, Ninh Thuan, 150m, Northwest part, Malaise trap, 24–30.v.2007, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R.de Vries, Voucher codes: CNC924045, CNC924046.

The two known species of the genus are very similar morphologically. J. jamesi is a larger species (usually its body length is at least 0.5 mm larger than J. sydneyae) and T2 is comparatively less broad apically (T2 width at posterior margin 1.8–2.3 × width at anterior margin, whereas J. sydneyae has T2 width at posterior margin 3.0 × width at anterior margin). The known geographical distribution of the two species is also different, with J. jamesi found at lower altitudes in southern Thailand and Vietnam (75–100 m), whereas all known specimens of J. sydneyae have been collected at higher altitudes (273–924 m). DNA barcodes of the two species also have more than 2% of base pair differences.

Female. Body mostly yellow to yellow-white, with only antennae brown (light brown ventrally, dark brown dorsally), posterior 0.2 of metatibia and metatarsus dark brown to black; base of mandible slightly discolored (with paler spot); wings hyaline, veins dark brown. Body mostly smooth, with very shallow and sparse punctures in some areas. Flagellomeres with placodes arranged in three rows. Head posteriorly with a deep depression, behind occiput. Hypostomal carina with projecting flange. Mesosoma mostly smooth. Scutoscutellar sulcus with some 6 strong crenulae. Propodeum entirely smooth, without any carina. Metatrochantellus with unique shape (better illustrated in Fig. 23I), anteriorly with rounded projections. Relatively very large (0.8 × as long as first segment of metatarsus) and thick inner spur in hind leg. Fore wing with large areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe fully setose. Metasoma mostly smooth. Ovipositor extremely short, almost invisible externally. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.33 (0.29–0.33); F3 L: 0.33 (0.29–0.33); F14 L: 0.29 (0.25–0.29); F15 L: 0.27 (0.23–0.27); Malar sulcus L: 0.10 (0.09–0.10); Mandible W: 0.13 (0.11–0.13); T1 L: 0.53 (0.52–0.54); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.18 (0.13–0.15); T1 maximum W: 0.27 (0.22–0.26); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.15 (0.15–0.18); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.33 (0.30–0.37); T2 L: 0.33 (0.29–0.38); Metafemur L: 1.44 (1.29–1.45); Metafemur W: 0.42 (0.38–0.42); Metatibia L: 1.57 (1.44–1.63); Inner spur L: 0.75 (0.68–0.78); Outer spur L: 0.39 (0.34–0.40); First segment of Metatarsus L: 1.00 (0.91–1.00); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.08 (0.05–0.07); Body L: 3.84 (3.66–3.92); Fore wing L: 4.08 (3.64–4.08). Maximum W of T1 is taken at anterior margin of T1 for all specimens. T1 L is approximate for 3 specimens and impossible to measure for 2 specimens. Fore wing L is approximate for 2 specimens.

Male. As female.

Figure 22. 

Jimwhitfieldius jamesi female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal.

Figure 23. 

Jimwhitfieldius jamesi female holotype. F Antennal flagellomeres 1 to 4 G Hind leg H Hypopygium and ovipositor, lateral I Hypopygium and ovipositor, ventral J Inner and outer spines of metatibia.

Host unknown.

Thailand, Vietnam.

The holotype and 9 paratype sequences all belong to BIN BOLD:AAH1239, which is 1.5 % different from the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD (specimens of an undescribed species of Jimwhitfieldius).

Named after James B. Whitfield in appreciation of the many things the first author has learned from him.

Figure 24. 

Jimwhitfieldius jamesi female paratype CNC878555. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Inner and outer spines of metatibia.

Figure 25. 

Jimwhitfieldius jamesi female paratype CNC878555. E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Metasoma dorsal G Antennal flagellomeres 1 to 5 H Inner spine of metatibia.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

THAILAND: Loei, Phu/Kradueng NP, mixed/deciduous/Elerd, 273m/16.566, 101.49, 19.iii.2008/Thonghuay Phatai/JMIC 0138. Second label: JMIC 0138.

THAILAND, Loei Province, Phu, Kradueng National Park, mixed deciduous, 273m, 16.566, 101.49.

Thailand. (1♂ CNC), Lampang, Chae Son NP, youth camp/meeting hall, 18.499000, 99.282000, 476m, 16.iii.2008, coll. B. Kwannui & A. Sukpeng, Voucher code: JMIC0284; (1♂ QSBG), Kamphaeng Phet, Mae Wong National Park, Chong Yen, 16.521000, 99.658000, 1306m, 2.iv.2008, coll. C. Piluek, Voucher code: WAM0039; (1♂ QSBG), Thung Salaeng Luang NP, staff house, Gang Sopa waterfall; Phitsanulok, 16.527000, 100.493000, 486m, 7.v.2007, coll. Pongpitak & Sathit, Voucher code: JMIC0165. (1♂ CNC), Mae Wong NP, Chong Yen; Kamphaeng Phet, 16.521000, 99.658000, 1306m, 2.iv.2008, coll. C. Piluek, Voucher code: JMIC0026; (1♂ CNC), Phetchabun, Nam Nao NP, Check Point, 16.437000, 101.638000, 924m, 26.v.2007, coll. Noopean Hongyothi, Voucher code: JMIC0258.

See previous species for comments on how to separate both.

Female. Body mostly yellow to yellow-white, with only antennae brown (light brown ventrally, dark brown dorsally), posterior 0.2 of metatibia and metatarsus dark brown to black; base of mandible slightly discolored (with paler spot); wings hyaline, veins dark brown. Body mostly smooth, with very shallow and sparse punctures in some areas. Flagellomeres with placodes arranged in three rows. Head posteriorly with a deep depression, behind occiput (Fig. 26E). Hypostomal carina with projecting flange. Mesosoma mostly smooth. Scutoscutellar sulcus with some 6 strong crenulae. Propodeum entirely smooth, without any carina. Metatrochantellus with unique shape (see Fig. 23I), anteriorly with rounded projections. Relatively very large (0.8 × as long as first segment of metatarsus) and thick inner spur in hind leg. Fore wing with large areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe fully setose. Metasoma mostly smooth. Ovipositor extremely short, almost invisible externally. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.28; F3 L: 0.28; F14 L: 0.24; F15 L: 0.23; Malar sulcus L: 0.09; Mandible W: 0.10; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.18; T1 maximum W: 0.34; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.18; Metafemur L: 1.19; Metafemur W: 0.36; Metatibia L: 1.31; Inner spur L: 0.67; Outer spur L: 0.36; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.81; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.04; Body L: 2.75; Fore wing L: 3.59. Maximum W of T1 is approximate.

Male. As female.

Figure 26. 

Jimwhitfieldius sydneyae female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Hypopygium and ovipositor, lateral.

Host unknown.

Thailand.

The holotype and 5 paratype sequences all belong to BIN BOLD:AAV2073, which is 2.3 % different from the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD (specimens of an undescribed species of Jimwhitfieldius).

Named after Sydney Cameron as appreciation of the very nice moments shared during several visits the first author made to her and Jim in Illinois.

Kotenkosius tricarinatus Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Face with slightly coarse punctures. Mesosoma mostly smooth, at most with areas with sparse and shallow punctures. Polished area of lateral face of scutellum (lunules) relatively very small, less than 0.2 height of lateral face (Fig. 27D). Propodeum carination pattern that includes three complete longitudinal carinae (one medially, the other two sublaterally) and a complete transverse carina (subapically), with additional small striae radiating from the median and sublateral carinae (Figs 27D, F); most carinae are strongly defined and raised. Fore wing with relatively large and quadrate areolet (Fig. 27C). Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metasomal terga smooth. T1 rectangular, T2 trapezoidal (Figs 27E, F). Hypopygium inflexible, without pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and less than half the length of the metatibia (Fig. 27A).

Figure 27. 

Kotenkosius tricarinatus female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Mesosoma dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum.

The carination pattern of propodeum is unique among Microgastrinae. Kotenkosius is likely related to Choeras s.l. (see Discussion below) but it has a very different propodeum carination and an inflexible, unpleated hypopygium.

Host unknown.

The only species known is found in the Oriental region.

Among the specimens we have been able to study, three have sequences available in BOLD, all corresponding to BIN BOLD:AAV2185. Another three sequences (from specimens we have not seen) are part of that same BIN, suggesting they all belong to the same species. That BIN is far apart from other Microgastrinae with available DNA barcodes (with the exception of BIN BOLD:ADB2437, which seems related to K. tricarinatus and could represent a second species of Kotenkosius, see more comments on the section “Species” below).

The genus name refers to and honors the Ukrainian braconid expert Anatoly G. Kotenko, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of Braconidae, specially his work on East Palearctic Microgastrinae. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Although there are slight differences between specimens from several countries (with some specimens being lighter coloured) we consider them all to be conspecific. Thus, we recognize here only one species, which seems to be rather widespread in the Oriental region (Bangladesh, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam). However, in BOLD there is another BIN (BOLD:ADB2437), which contains five sequences of specimens from Indonesia, which seems closely related to K. tricarinatus and thus could represent a second species in this genus. However, we have not seen those specimens nor have access to those sequences and thus cannot conclude on that nor describe that putative second species.

Female, Vietnam, RMNH.

Mic./760. Second label: VN: Yên Bái, Luc/Yên, Phúc Lợi./Rứng TS 07-X-2003/KH. Ɖ. LONG. Third label: CNC878543. There is a fourth, red label associated with the holotype specimen. Apparently it was attached as the specimen was considered to be a potential paratype of a Choeras species never described. We are not detailing that name here as it is not valid, and the specimen does not belong to Choeras, but we are just noting the existence of that fourth label –which we did not remove because the specimen belongs to a different institution than ours.

VIETNAM, Yên Bái, LucYên, Phúc Lợi. Rứng.

Malaysia (2♀ RMNH) Sabah, near Long Pa Sia, Payakalaba, 1010m, Malaise trap, 12–13.iv.1987, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher codes: CNC878547, CNC878548. Taiwan. (1♂ CNC) Wushe, 1150m, v.1983, coll. H. Townes, Voucher code: CNC878549. Thailand. (1♂ QSBG) Chiang Mai, Doi Chiang Dao WS Nature Trail, 19.404633, 98.921850, 491m, pan trap, 1–2.x.2007, coll. Songkran & Apichart, Voucher code: CNC878546; (1♀ QSBG) Kaeng Krachan NP, km 16/road/stream 2; Phet Buri, 12.481000, 99.267000, 320m, 22.vi.2009, coll. Sirichai, Voucher code: JMIC0181; (1♀ QSBG) Kaeng Krachan NP, km 33/helipad; Phet Buri, 12.502000, 99.207000, 735m, 4.v.2009, coll. Sirichai, Voucher code: JMIC0038; (1♀ QSBG) 8.vi.2009, coll. Sirichai, Voucher code: JMIC0193. Vietnam. (1♂ RMNH) Hã Giang, Vi Xuyên Dao Duc. Rung TS, 20.x.2006, coll. KH. D. Long, Voucher code: CNC878544; (1♂ RMNH) Viet Try, Thuong Cuu, near Thanh Son, 20.983333, 105.133333, 300 to 400m, 12–16.x.1999, coll. R. de Vries, Voucher code: CNC878545.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Body color mostly yellow, except for dark brown to black head and T5-7 sometimes with brown marks centrally. Antenna yellow to light brown-yellow. Legs yellow except for dark brown spot on anterior 0.1 of metatibia, and brown metatarsus. Wings veins mostly brown, except for yellow-white vein R1 on fore wing and pterostigma with yellow-white spot on anterior 0.3. Face with slightly coarse punctures. Mesosoma mostly smooth, at most with areas with sparse and shallow punctures. Polished area of lateral face of scutellum (lunules) relatively very small, less than 0.2 height of lateral face. Propodeum carination pattern that includes three complete longitudinal carinae (one medially, the other two sublaterally) and a complete transverse carina (subapically), with additional small striae radiating from the median and sublateral carinae (Fig. 27D, F); most carinae are strongly defined and raised. Fore wing with relatively large and quadrate areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metatibia with relatively strong spines (peg-like) on dorsal surface, which are darker than metatibia color. Metasomal terga smooth. T1 rectangular, T2 trapezoidal. Hypopygium inflexible, without pleats. Ovipositor sheaths setose and less than half the length of the metatibia. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.24 (0.25–0.26); F3 L: 0.23 (0.25–0.26); F14 L: 0.13 (0.14–0.17); F15 L: 0.12 (0.11–0.13); Malar sulcus L: 0.06 (0.07); Mandible W: 0.10 (0.09); T1 L: 0.44 (0.43–0.48); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.19 (0.21); T1 maximum W: 0.27 (0.27); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.20 (0.18–0.20); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.38 (0.35–0.36); T2 L: 0.16 (0.14–0.16); Metafemur L: 0.76 (0.80–0.83); Metafemur W: 0.25 (0.26–0.28); Metatibia L: 1.03 (1.03–1.07); Inner spur L: 0.23 (0.26–0.28); Outer spur L: 0.14 (0.18); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.45 (0.48–0.50); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.46 (0.50–0.53); Body L: 3.06 (2.45–3.03); Fore wing L: 3.06 (3.19–3.28). T2 W at posterior margin is approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. As female.

Host unknown.

Bangladesh, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.

Three paratypes with available sequences belong to BIN BOLD:AAV2185, which is 6.7 % different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD (another putative, undescribed species of Kotenkosius, but we have not been able to see specimens from that BIN).

From Latin “trēs” (meaning “three”) and “carina” (meaning “keel”), referring to the three longitudinal carinae found on the propodeum.

The record of this species from Bangladesh is based on a sequence recorded in BOLD which matches the sequences of the paratypes; however, we have not seen that specimen and thus cannot confirm unequivocally its identity. A second species of Kotenkosius seems to be revealed in BOLD (BIN BOLD:ADB2437), based on how similar the sequences are; however, we have not seen specimens from that BIN and thus cannot conclude on that.

Markshawius erucidoctus Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Female head elongate and strongly concave posteriorly, modified to be tightly appressed to and follow the contour of anterior margin of pronotum (pronotum also concave). Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a triangular flange (Figs 28B, 29B, 30B, 31B). Face looking almost depressed, and with very strong sculpture including transverse striae and punctures (Figs 28B, 29B, 30B, 31B). Frons very elongate, with ocelli clearly much higher than normally found in Microgastrinae. Frons with strong excavation at antennal base –better appreciated on a lateral view of the head (Figs 29C, 31E). Antenna very short (much shorter than body length, usually shorter than the combined length of head and mesosoma), with all flagellomeres but first with a single row of placodes (Figs 28A, E, 29A, 30A, 31A). Pronotum only with lower sulcus (which is sometimes barely visible). Propodeum with median carina clearly visible on posterior half (sometimes that carina looks divided, giving the impression of actually being the posterior half of a very thin areola). Propodeum sometimes with transverse rugosity medially, including a poorly and partially defined transverse carina (Figs 28D, F, 29F, G, 30E, F, 31G, H). Fore wing with large, four-sided areolet (Figs 28C, 29D, 30D, 31D). Legs in general short and stout, especially metafemur (Figs 28A, 29A, 30A, 31A). T1 with unusual, very distinctive shape: in some species being extremely long and thin (T1 length at least 6.0 × its width centrally) (Figs 29E–G, 30D, E), in other species very thin on anterior 0.3–0.4, then strongly widening towards posterior margin (width at posterior margin around 3.0 × its width centrally) (Figs 28D, F, 31F, G). T2 either trapezoidal and with lateral margins strongly sculptured, or subtriangular and with lateral margins less sculptured (Figs 28D, F, 29E–G, 30D, E, 31F, G). Ovipositor sheaths almost without setae (with only very few, small setae near apex that are usually invisible at less than 100 × of magnification), ovipositor strongly narrowing toward apex, where it looks almost needle-like.

The carination pattern of propodeum is unique among Microgastrinae. The two known shapes of T1 are also highly unusual. All species of Protomicroplitis and Wilkinsonellus, and some species of Apanteles, Diolcogaster and Venanides have very long and thin T1; however, they have a strong median sulcus on T1 (Diolcogaster, Protomicroplitis and Wilkinsonellus) or are completely unrelated genera with many different and distinguishing features compared to Markshawius (Apanteles and Venanides). The shape of the head is similarly shared with a few species of other genera (e.g., Diolcogaster and, to a lesser extent also some species of Cotesia, Keylimepie and Venanides). All of those genera, except for Diolcogaster, are unrelated to Markshawius, suggesting that trait likely evolved independently several times within Microgastrinae parasitizing stem borers.

Hosts are unknown at present. However, it is here hypothesized that the modification of head and pronotum serves the purpose of facilitating entering into or egressing from narrow tunnels where the caterpillar hosts live, and those hosts most likely are stem borers, perhaps from the Lepidoptera superfamily Pyraloidea.

All known species are found in the Oriental region (Thailand, Vietnam).

Only one sequence available (a complete barcode), but it is very unique, 11.2 % different than next Microgastrinae sequence available in BOLD.

The genus name refers to and honors the British braconid expert Mark Shaw, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the knowledge of Hymenoptera, especially host/parasitoid biology. Throughout the years, Mark has been a mentor, dear friend, and an inspiration for the first author to continue his work with parasitoid wasps. The gender of the genus is neuter.

The species described below have two different sculpture patterns of propodeum, as well as two different shapes of T1. Future studies may find that those species are better placed in separate genera, but due to the paucity of specimens we prefer to keep them all within one single genus for the time being.

We recognize three different species, all new and described below. They can be separate using the following key.

Female, Vietnam, RMNH.

N. VIETNAM: Ninh Binh/Cuc Phuong N.P., nr entrance/c225 m, 15.iv-1.v.2000, Mal. tr. II/Mai Phu Quv, RMNH’00. Second label: CNC878536.

VIETNAM, Ninh Binh Province, Cuc Phuong National Park, near entrance, 225m.

The shape of T1 and sculpture of propodeum clearly separate M. erucidoctus from M. francescae (see under that species for further details). As for the other species, M. erucidotus is a larger species than M. thailandensis (fore wing L 2.2 mm versus 1.6 mm), has fore wing vein R1 light yellow (R1 brown in M. thailandensis), has a broader pterostigma and more defined crenulae on scutoscutellar sulcus, and the widest part of T1 is wider than T2 width at anterior margin (widest part of T1 same width than T2 width at anterior margin in M. thailandensis).

Female. Body color mostly brown; face partially reddish-brown; palpi yellow-white; labrum, mandible, scape, pedicel, and most of legs (except for metacoxa, posterior 0.1 of metatibia and metatarsus which are brown) orange-yellow; flagellomeres brown; tegulae and humeral complex, most laterotergites and sternites yellow-white to yellow-brown; wings hyaline, veins mostly brown. Head elongate and strongly concave posteriorly, modified to be tightly appressed to and follow the contour of anterior margin of pronotum (pronotum also concave). Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a triangular flange. Face looking almost depressed, and with very strong sculpture including transverse striae and punctures. Frons very elongate, with ocelli clearly much higher than normally found in Microgastrinae. Frons with strong excavation at antennal base –better appreciated on a lateral view of the head. Antenna very short (shorter than the combined length of head and mesosoma), with all flagellomeres but first with a single row of placodes. Pronotum only with lower sulcus. Propodeum with median longitudinal carina clearly visible on posterior half and with transverse rugosity medially, including a partially defined transverse carina. Propodeum with different sculpture, anterior area with punctures, posterior area mostly smooth. Fore wing with relatively large, four-sided areolet. Legs in general short and stout, especially metafemur. T1 very thin on anterior 0.3–0.4, then strongly widening towards posterior margin (width at posterior margin around 3.0 × its width centrally). T2 trapezoidal and with lateral margins strongly sculptured. Ovipositor sheaths almost without setae (with only very few, small setae near apex that are usually invisible at less than 100 × of magnification), ovipositor strongly narrowing toward apex, where it looks almost needle-like. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.10; F3 L: 0.08; F14 L: 0.08; Malar sulcus L: 0.05; Mandible W: 0.12; T1 L: 0.40; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.16; T1 maximum W: 0.19; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.14; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.23; T2 L: 0.12; Metafemur L: 0.59; Metafemur W: 0.28; Metatibia L: 0.70; Inner spur L: 0.20; Outer spur L: 0.15; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.27; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.25; Body L: 2.45; Fore wing L: 2.40. T1 L and mandible W are approximate.

Figure 28. 

Markshawius erucidoctus female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Metasoma dorsal E Antenna F Mesosoma dorsal.

Unknown.

Host unknown.

Vietnam.

No molecular data available.

From Latin “eruca” (“caterpillar”) and “doctus” (“learned”, “skilled”, “erudite”), referring to a person with considerable knowledge about caterpillars. This species is dedicated to my dear friend and mentor Mark Shaw, the most knowledgeable researcher on caterpillar/parasitoid biology that I have ever met. He is indeed “the master” of the caterpillars and their parasitoids.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

Thailand. Chiang Mai/Montha Tarn Water Fall,/18.81560°N, 98.92910°E,/700m, CNCH2123. Second label: CNCH2123.

THAILAND, Chiang Mai, Montha Tarn Water Fall, 18.81560°N, 98.92910°E, 700m.

Nepal. (1♀ CNC), Kathmandu, Godavari, 1828m, Malaise trap, 13–17.viii.1967, coll. Canadian Expedition, Voucher code: CNC878538; (1♀ CNC), 7–12.viii.1967, coll. Canadian Expedition, Voucher code: CNC878539; (1♀ CNC), Kathmandu, Pulchauki, 2011m, Malaise trap, 21–27.vii.1967, coll. Canadian Expedition, Voucher code: CNC878537. Thailand. (1♂ QSBG), Lampang, Chae Son NP, Doi Laan, unit 1, 18.508000, 99.217000, 1413m, 14.viii.2007, coll. B. Kwannui & A. Sukpeng, Voucher code: JMIC0496; (2♂ CNC, QSBG), Mae Wong NP, Chong Yen; Kamphaeng Phet, 16.521000, 99.658000, 1306m, 28.iv.2008, coll. C. Piluek, Voucher codes: JMIC0144, JMIC0146; (1♂ QSBG), Chiang Mai, Montha Tarn Water Fall, 18.815600, 98.929100, 700m, Voucher code: CNCH2122; (2♀ CNC, QSBG), Trang, Nayong Khaochong, 7.561, 99.886; 7.561000, 99.886000, 75m, Voucher codes: CNCH1584, CNCH2146. Vietnam. (1♂ RMNH), Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park, near centre, 225m, 15–27.v.2000, coll. Mai Phu Quv, Voucher code: CNC878541; (1♂ RMNH), Hoa Binh, Pa Co Hang Kia Nature Reserve, 20.743611, 104.938889, 1045m, Malaise trap, 8–23.x.2009, coll. C.v. Achterberg & R. de Vries, Voucher code: CNC878542; (1♀ RMNH), Tonkin, Hoang Lien National Reserve, 15km W Sa Pa, 1900m, Malaise trap, 15–21.x.1999, coll. C.v. Achterberg, Voucher code: CNC878540.

The shape of T1 (entirely parallel-sided and extremely long and thin, its length at least 6.0 × its width) as well as sculpture of propodeum (without transverse rugosity medially and without any defined transverse carina) clearly separate this species from the other known species in the genus.

Female. Body color mostly dark brown to black; palpi, labrum and mandible yellow-white; scape, pedicel, tegulae and humeral complex, and most of legs (except for anterior 0.5 of metacoxa and metatarsus which are brown) yellow; flagellomeres brown; most laterotergites and sternites yellow-white to yellow-brown; wings hyaline, veins mostly brown. Head elongate and strongly concave posteriorly, modified to be tightly appressed to and follow the contour of anterior margin of pronotum (pronotum also concave). Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a triangular flange. Face looking almost depressed, and with very strong sculpture including transverse striae and punctures. Frons very elongate, with ocelli clearly much higher than normally found in Microgastrinae. Frons with strong excavation at antennal base –better appreciated on a lateral view of the head. Antenna shorter than body (but slightly longer than the combined length of head and mesosoma), with all flagellomeres short, with a single row of placodes or two very small rows that look almost like one. Pronotum only with lower sulcus. Propodeum mostly smooth, with median longitudinal carina clearly visible on posterior half. Fore wing with relatively large, four-sided areolet. Legs in general short and stout, especially metafemur. T1 extremely long and thin (T1 L at least 6.0 × its width centrally). T2 subtriangular and with lateral margins less sculptured. Ovipositor sheaths almost without setae (with only very few, small setae near apex that are usually invisible at less than 100x of magnification), ovipositor strongly narrowing toward apex, where it looks almost needle-like. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.09 (0.09–0.13); F3 L: 0.08 (0.09–0.12); F14 L: 0.08 (0.08–0.10); F15 L: 0.08 (0.08–0.10); Malar sulcus L: 0.05 (0.06–0.08); Mandible W: 0.07 (0.08); T1 L: 0.29 (0.34–0.42); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.05 (0.07); T1 maximum W: 0.07 (0.08); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.05 (0.07–0.09); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.17 (0.22–0.24); T2 L: 0.10 (0.11–0.15); Metafemur L: 0.47 (0.58–0.65); Metafemur W: 0.16 (0.19–0.21); Metatibia L: 0.59 (0.71–0.76); Inner spur L: 0.17 (0.18–0.26); Outer spur L: 0.14 (0.14–0.17); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.26 (0.32–0.35); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.10 (0.22–0.27); Body L: 1.87 (2.00–2.43); Fore wing L: 1.84 (2.30–2.53). Mandible W is approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. As female.

Figure 29. 

Markshawius francescae female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Head lateral D Fore wing E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum G Mesosoma dorsal.

Figure 30. 

Markshawius francescae female paratype CNC878540. A Habitus B Head frontal C Head dorsal D Fore wing, inset: details of the areolet E Metasoma dorsal F Mesosoma dorsal.

Host unknown.

Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam.

Only for one of the paratypes (JMIC 0146) there is a 125bp sequence available in BOLD, but it is too short to place the species within the context of other Microgastrinae.

Named after Francesca Shaw, in appreciation of her kindness and for being such a wonderful host to the first author when he was visiting the Shaw family in 2013.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

Thailand. Trang Prov./Ampuh Nayon Khao/Chong, 7.561°N, 99.886°E, 75m,/BIN#BOLD:AAH1292/CNCH2216. Second label: CNCH2216.

THAILAND, Trang Province, Ampuh Nayon Khao Chong, 7.561°N, 99.886°E, 75m.

The shape of T1 and sculpture of propodeum clearly separate M. thailandensis from M. francescae (see under that species for further details). As for the other species, M. thailandensis is a smaller species than M. erucidoctus (fore wing L 1.6 mm versus 2.2 mm), has fore wing vein R1 brown (R1 light yellow in M. erucidoctus), has a narrower pterostigma and less defined crenulae on scutoscutellar sulcus, and the widest part of T1 is the same width than T2 width at anterior margin (widest part of T1 wider than T2 width at anterior margin in M. erucidoctus).

Female. Body color mostly brown; face mostly reddish-brown; palpi yellow-white; labrum, mandible, scape, pedicel, and most of legs (except for brown metacoxa) yellow to yellow-orange; flagellomeres brown-yellow; tegulae and humeral complex yellow-white; most laterotergites and sternites yellow; wings hyaline, veins mostly brown. Head elongate and strongly concave posteriorly, modified to be tightly appressed to and follow the contour of anterior margin of pronotum (pronotum also concave). Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a triangular flange. Face looking almost depressed, and with very strong sculpture including transverse striae and punctures. Frons very elongate, with ocelli clearly much higher than normally found in Microgastrinae. Frons with strong excavation at antennal base –better appreciated on a lateral view of the head. Antenna very short (shorter than the combined length of head and mesosoma), with all flagellomeres but first with a single row of placodes. Pronotum only with lower sulcus. Propodeum with median longitudinal carina clearly visible on posterior half (carina looks divided, giving the impression of actually being the posterior half of a very thin areola) and with transverse rugosity medially, including a partially defined transverse carina. Propodeum (apart from carinae and rugosity) mostly smooth, at most with scattered and shallow punctures on anterior half. Fore wing with relatively large, four-sided areolet. Legs in general short and stout, especially metafemur. T1 very thin on anterior 0.3–0.4, then strongly widening towards posterior margin (width at posterior margin around 3.0 × its width centrally). T2 trapezoidal and with lateral margins strongly sculptured. Ovipositor sheaths almost without setae (with only very few, small setae near apex that are usually invisible at less than 100 × of magnification), ovipositor strongly narrowing toward apex, where it looks almost needle-like. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.08; F3 L: 0.08; F14 L: 0.07; Malar sulcus L: 0.07; Mandible W: 0.08; T1 L: 0.29; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.11; T1 maximum W: 0.12; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.09; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.17; T2 L: 0.11; Metafemur L: 0.47; Metafemur W: 0.22; Metatibia L: 0.52; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.09; Body L: 1.94. T1 L is approximate. Fore wing is curved and ripped so wasn’t measured.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 31. 

Markshawius thailandensis female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Head dorsal D Fore wing E Head lateral F Metasoma dorsal G Propodeum H Mesosoma dorsal.

Host unknown.

Thailand.

The holotype sequence represents BIN BOLD:AAH1292, which is 11.2 % different from the closest Microgastrinae sequence in BOLD.

Named after the country of the type locality.

Ohenri gouletorum Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Antenna with placodes irregularly distributed in three and up to four rows. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much larger than width of flagellomeres, and clearly larger than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera (Fig. 32F). Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulci. Most of mesosoma sculptured with relatively deep, close punctures. Propodeum with median carina clearly defined on anterior 0.6, and then obscured by partially defined areola on posterior 0.4 (Figs 32E, F). Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe concave and without setae. Tarsal claws pectinate, with two large teeth near base of claw. T1 and T2 dull, T3+ mostly smooth (Fig. 32E). Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized and sharply pointed apically (Fig. 32A). Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and clearly shorter than metatibia length. Ovipositor with four subapical serrate teeth on lower (first) valvulae (Fig. 32D).

Pronotum enlarged dorsally (shared with Qrocodiledundee, see below under description of that genus). The subapical teeth in the lower valvulae of ovipositor are very unusual in Microgastrinae (although not unique to Ohenri), as are the antennal placodes irregularly distributed, the large teeth on tarsal claws, and the propodeum with a combination of a median carina and partially defined areola. The relationships of Ohenri with other genera of Microgastrinae are not clear at present, although some morphological features are related to Sathon s. str. and two new genera, Carlmuesebeckius and Qrocodiledundee, also described in this paper.

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Afrotropical region (Nigeria).

No molecular data available.

The genus name refers to and honors the Canadian braconid expert Henri Goulet, a dear friend, colleague and mentor for many years. The letter “O” added to the beginning of the genus name also plays with words, to loosely refer to the chocolate brand “Oh Henry!” –an indirect mention to Henri’s fondness for sweet treats. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Female, Nigeria, CNC.

Ibadan, NIGERIA/Aug. 27 1962/D. C. Eidt. Second label: CNC878552. Third label: validus group/Det./W.R.M.Mason78.

NIGERIA, Ibadan.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Head and mesosoma black; metasoma, palpi, legs (except for metatarsus which is brown), tegula and humeral complex, yellow; mandible, labrum, and most of clypeus orange; antenna dark brown; wings hyaline, most veins brown, pterostigma brown with small spot at base. Antenna with placodes irregularly distributed in three and up to four rows. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much longer than width of flagellomeres, and clearly longer than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera. Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulcus. Most of mesosoma, including anteromesoscutum, scutellar disc, most of mesopleuron and propodeum, with relatively deep, close punctures. Propodeum with median carina clearly defined on anterior 0.6, and then obscured by partially defined areola on posterior 0.4. Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe concave and without setae. Tarsal claws pectinate, with two large teeth near base of claw. T1 and T2 dull, T3+ mostly smooth. Hypopygium uniformly sclerotized and sharply pointed apically. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and shorter than metatibia length. Ovipositor with four subapical serrate teeth on lower (first) valvulae. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.43; F3 L: 0.43; Malar sulcus L: 0.09; Mandible W: 0.18; T1 L: 0.53; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.52; T1 maximum W: 0.58; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.79; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.75; T2 L: 0.28; Metafemur L: 1.08; Metafemur W: 0.43; Metatibia L: 1.45; Inner spur L: 0.48; Outer spur L: 0.27; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.71; Ovipositor sheaths L: 1.08; Body L: 4.56; Fore wing L: 4.32. T2 W at anterior margin is approximate.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 32. 

Ohenri gouletarum female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Ovipositor and details of ovipositor tip E Metasoma dorsal F Mesosoma dorsal.

Host unknown.

Nigeria.

No molecular data available.

Named after Henri Goulet’s family, in recognition of the support they have always given to both authors over the past 15 years.

Qrocodiledundee outbackense Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head with eyes relatively small, with relatively large malar line, and with gena bulging behind eyes (Fig. 33A, C). Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Mesosoma relatively flattened dorso-ventrally. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much larger than width of flagellomeres, and clearly larger than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera (Fig. 33C). Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulcus. Anteromesoscutum with relatively deep and close punctures centrally, smooth anteriorly, laterally and posteriorly (Fig. 33G). Scutellar disc and most of mesopleuron smooth, metapleuron with coarse sculpture on posterior half. Propodeum with an apophysis laterally, near posterior margin (Fig. 33D–G), which looks like a small tubercle. Propodeum with median carina clearly defined on anterior 0.6, and then obscured by partially defined areola on posterior 0.4 (Figs 33F, G). Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe straight and entirely setose. Metafemur relatively very small and thick, 2.0 × as long as its maximum width. Tarsal claws simple. T1 and T2 dull, T3+ mostly smooth. T2 relatively enlarged, almost as long as T3 (Fig. 33D, F).

This new genus shares with Ohenri the pronotum enlarged dorsally and propodeum with a median carina and partially defined areola. However, Qrocodiledundee has flagellomeres with two rows of placodes, simple tarsal claws, and setose vannal lobe (flagellomeres with 3–4 rows of placodes, pectinate tarsal claws and setoseless vannal lobe in Ohenri). Qrocodiledundee can be easily recognized on the account of its propodeal apophysis, unique among Microgastrinae, as well as its flattened mesosoma and short and stout metafemur. The relationships of Qrocodiledundee with other genera of Microgastrinae are not clear at present, although some morphological features are related to Sathon and Carlmuesebeckius and Ohenri (the latter two also described in this paper).

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Australasian region (Australia).

No molecular data available.

Named after the iconic Australian movie “Crocodile Dundee”, one of the favorite movies of the first author (who at one point was even nicknamed as that because, as with the main character of the movie, he also caught crocodiles and was bitten by one). The first letter of the name is changed to a “Q” to guarantee the uniqueness of the name and avoid potential homonyms. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Male, Australia, CNC.

Normanton/Australia/Mar. 9–20. Second label: CNC878553.

AUSTRALIA, Normanton.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Male. Body almost entirely orange-yellow, except for small black spot on axillar complex; wings infumated, veins brown. Head relatively wide, with eyes relatively small, relatively large malar line, and gena bulging behind eyes. Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Mesosoma relatively flattened dorso-ventrally, in lateral view its length about twice its height. Pronotum enlarged dorsally, its median length (on a dorsal view) very large, much longer than width of flagellomeres, and clearly longer than propodeum in most Microgastrinae genera. Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulcus. Anteromesoscutum with relatively deep and close punctures centrally, smooth anteriorly, laterally and posteriorly. Scutellar disc and most of mesopleuron smooth, metapleuron with coarse sculpture on posterior half. Propodeum with an apophysis laterally, near posterior margin (Fig. 33D–G), which looks like a small tubercle. Propodeum with median carina clearly defined on anterior 0.6, and then obscured by partially defined areola on posterior 0.4. Fore wing without areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe straight and entirely setose. Metafemur relatively very small and thick, 2.4 × as long as its maximum width. Tarsal claws simple. T1 and T2 dull, T3+ mostly smooth. T2 relatively enlarged, almost as long as T3. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.45; F3 L: 0.43; F14 L: 0.33; F15 L: 0.27; Malar sulcus L: 0.10; Mandible W: 0.12; T1 L: 0.63; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.68; T1 maximum W: 0.68; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.76; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.83; T2 L: 0.42; Metafemur L: 0.86; Metafemur W: 0.35; Metatibia L: 1.43; Inner spur L: 0.29; Outer spur L: 0.23; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.58; Body L: 4.48; Fore wing L: 4.52. T2 W at posterior margin is approximate. Maximum W of T1 is taken at the posterior margin of T1.

Female. Unknown.

Figure 33. 

Qrocodiledundee outbackense male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Head dorsal D Fore wing E Pronotum F Metasoma dorsal G Mesosoma dorsal. Red arrow shows the propodeal apophysis.

Host unknown.

Australia.

No molecular data available.

Named after the Outback, the vast and remote interior of Australia where the holotype specimen was collected. It also happens to be that the Outback is an important part of the “Crocodile Dundee” movie.

Silvaspinosus vespa Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Clypeus extremely long and thin (Figs 34B, 35B, F). Malar line extremely short, almost nonexistent (0.01 mm long). Mandible base separate from head by a desclerotized area that looks almost like an opening (Figs 34B, 35F). Mandibles relatively stout and large (Figs 34B, 35F). Tentorial pits relatively very large (Figs 34B, 35F). Anteromesoscutum mostly smooth, with shallow and sparse punctures (Fig. 34F). Notauli not indicated by sculpture. Scutellar disc without posteromedian band of rugosity (Figs 34F, G, 35E). Propodeum mostly with rugose sculpture and with median longitudinal carina complete (Figs 34G, 35D). Fore wing with large, quadrangular areolet (Figs 34C, 35C). Fore tarsus with a curved, spine-like seta. Metacoxa relatively short (its length not surpassing posterior margin of T2), metatibial spurs relatively short (less than half the length of first segment of metatarsus). T1 smooth and without median longitudinal sulcus (Fig. 34E). T2 smooth and with central area slightly raised and poorly defined from lateral areas by weak sulcus (Figs 34E, 35D).

The shape of clypeus, and mandible separation from head by desclerotized area are unique among Microgastrinae. Silvaspinosus seems to belong to the Microplitini group of genera (sensu Mason 1981), based on the relatively short metacoxa and metatibial spurs, fore wing with large areolet, as well as its DNA barcode sequence (see below under “Molecular data”). However, the spine-like seta on the fore tarsus and the absence of a median band of rugosity on the posterior margin of the scutellar disc would be unique and distinctive among Microplitini (those features tend to be present in some species of a few genera within Cotesini (sensu Mason 1981)).

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Afrotropical region (Madagascar).

One of the female paratypes (CNCH3044) rendered a partial barcode (427bp), which is 8.3% different from the closest Microgastrinae (several Microplitis species).

From “silva” (in Latin “forest”) and “spinosus” (in Latin “spinous, thorny”), referring to the famed Madagascar spiny forests, where the wasp is found, apparently as an endemic taxon from that ecoregion. The gender of the genus is neuter.

This genus seems to be related to the Microplitis group of genera (Microplitini sensu Mason 1981), based on fore wing areolet size, metacoxa size, length of metatibia spurs, and shape of T2. However, other characters are highly unusual (shape of clypeus) or not previously known from Microplitini (spine on fore tarsus). The spiny forests of Madagascar are considered by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) as one of the “Global 200” ecoregions, a list that includes those areas of the planet with higher value and priority for conservation. Thus, the description of this new genus and species of Microgastrinae wasp as endemic to those forests reinforces the unique biodiversity values of that region.

Only one species is known. We have seen four additional male specimens which have a different and lighter coloration pattern, and might represent a different species, but because they are no associated females, we prefer not to describe them for the time being.

Female, Madagascar, CAS.

Madagascar. Toliara/Province: Vohidava/Forest, 88.9 km N/Amboasary, 24.40556°S. Second label: 46.287778°E, 500m,/6–8.XII.2006, MT, B. L./Fisher et al, BLF15694, CNC649545.

MADAGASCAR, Toliara Province: Vohidava Forest, 88.9 km North of Amboasary, 24.40556°S, 46.287778°E, 500m.

Madagascar. (1♀ CNC), Toliara Province, Beza Mahafaly Reserve, -22.840500, 44.731200, 165m, 24.xii.2002, coll. R. Harin`Hala, Voucher code: CNCH3044; (1♂ CAS), Tulear Province, Andohahela National Park, Ihazofotsy Parcelle III, -24.830833, 46.536167, 80m, dry spiny forest, Malaise trap, 23.ix-4.x.2003, coll. M. Irwin, R. Harin’Hala & F. Parker, Voucher code: CASENT8402170; (3♂ CAS, CNC), Tulear Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, Mitoho Forest, across trail at base of escarpment, -24.048500, 43.752333, 120m, Dense dry forest, Malaise trap, 23–31.i.2009, coll. M. Irwin & R. Harin’Hala, Voucher codes: CASENT8402171, CASENT8402172, CASENT8402173; (1♀ 4♂ CAS, CNC), Toliara Province, Vohidava Forest, 88.9 km N Amboasary, -24.240556 46.287778, 500m, MT, 6–8.xii.2006, coll. B. L. Fisher et al, Voucher codes: CNC649540, CNC649542, CNC649543, CNC649544, CNC649546.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Head and mesosoma mostly black, mesosoma mostly dark brown, except for T1 light brown; clypeus, labrum and flagellomeres dark brown; mandibles orange; scape and pedicel yellow-brown; palpi usually mostly white (except for labial palpi 1–2 dark brown), but some specimens with darker palpi (mostly dark brown); legs mostly dark brown (except for protibial, protarsus, mesotibia and mesotarsus which are orange-yellow or yellow-white, and small white spot on anterior 0.1 or less of all tibiae); metatibial spurs yellow-white; wings slightly infumated on apical half, veins brown but parastigma yellow-white. Clypeus extremely long and thin. Malar line extremely short, almost nonexistent (0.01 mm or less long). Mandible base separate from head by a desclerotized area that looks like an opening. Mandibles relatively stout and large. Tentorial pits relatively very large. Anteromesoscutum mostly smooth, with shallow and sparse punctures. Notauli not indicated by sculpture. Scutellar disc without posteromedian band of rugosity. Propodeum mostly with rugose sculpture, with median longitudinal carina complete. Fore wing with large, quadrangular areolet (second submarginal cell). Fore tarsus with a curved, spine-like seta. Metacoxa relatively short (its length not surpassing posterior margin of T2), metatibial spurs relatively short (less than half the length of first segment of metatarsus). T1 smooth and without median longitudinal sulcus. T2 smooth and with central area slightly raised and poorly defined from lateral areas by weak sulcus. T3+ smooth and with sparse, relatively long setae. Hypopygium relatively short, not extending beyond last tergites. Ovipositor sheaths mostly smooth and very short, 0.14 × metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.24 (0.21); F3 L: 0.23 (0.21); F14 L: 0.15 (0.13); F15 L: 0.15 (0.13); Malar sulcus L: 0.01 (0.03); Mandible W: 0.21 (0.21); T1 L: 0.51 (0.38); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.10 (0.10); T1 maximum W: 0.28 (0.23); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.60 (0.49); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.75 (0.68); T2 L: 0.25 (0.23); Metafemur L: 0.83 (0.79); Metafemur W: 0.33 (0.29); Metatibia L: 1.00 (1.00); Inner spur L: 0.18 (0.15); Outer spur L: 0.18 (0.18); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.39 (0.38); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.14 (0.18); Body L: 3.31 (3.19); Fore wing L: 2.83 (2.58). T1 L is approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. As female.

Figure 34. 

Silvaspinosus vespa female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Mesosoma dorsal F Propodeum.

Figure 35. 

Silvaspinosus vespa female CNC644540 (A–E) and male CASENT8402171 (F) paratypes. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Head frontal, male.

Host unknown.

Madagascar, apparently restricted to the Spiny Forest ecoregion, also known as Madagascar spiny thickets (sensu https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/at1311).

One of the female paratypes (CNCH3044) rendered a partial barcode (427bp), which is 8.3% different from the closest Microgastrinae (several Microplitis species).

From Latin “vespa” (meaning “wasp”), referring to the species being a parasitoid wasp. It also intends to play with the generic name (which means “spiny forest”) thus producing the combined name of “wasp of the spiny forest” for the species.

Tobleronius orientalis Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Head with relatively large tentorial pits and palpi (Fig. 36B). Traces of an occipital carina latero-dorsally (scarsely visible in Fig. 36D). Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 4–6 strongly defined crenulae. Scutellar disc with coarse and slightly raised posteromedian band of rugosity (Figs 36D, 37E). Propodeum with complete areola and incomplete transversal carina (Figs 36D, F, 37D–F). Fore wing with large and quadrate areolet (Figs 36C, 37C). Metacoxa relatively long, extending to the posterior margin of T3 (Fig. 37A). T1 shape relatively unique (better illustrated in Figs 36E, F, 37D–F), with much wider anterior 0.6–0.7 and strongly narrowed posterior 0.3, so that widest part of tergite (near anterior margin) is around 4.0 × narrowest width (on posterior margin). T1 anterior 0.6–0.7 desclerotized and slightly concave. T2 very long and thin, although slightly widening towards posterior margin. Area surrounding spiracles on laterotergite 2 partially sclerotized and same color than T2, giving the impression of T2 having “three peaks” (the largest and central one being the actual T2, the two smallest and lateral ones being the area surrounding spiracles on laterotergites; better illustrated in Figs 36E, F, 37D, F).

Tobleronius belongs to the Microplitini (sensu Mason 1981) group of genera, and seems to be mostly related to Alloplitis. It can be distinguished by all other genera within that group by the unusual shape and lack of sculpture of T1 and T2, and the relatively long metacoxa (which reaches to the posterior margin of T3, unlike most Microplitini, where metacoxa length almost always is shorter than the combined length of T1 and T2). The carination pattern of the propodeum is also highly unusual, as in Microplitini only Alloplitis has a complete areola and complete transverse carina; Tobleronius has a complete areola but the transverse carina is incomplete.

An important character to analyze in future studies of Microgastrinae phylogeny is that the back of the head of Tobleronius shows traces of an occipital carina latero-dorsally. Until now all Microgastrinae had been considered to lack an occipital carina. In this paper we have described two genera with at least partial occipital carina (Gilbertnixonius and Tobleronius). But even among previously described genera of Microplitini there are additional examples. We have found, upon further examination of specimens in the CNC, that most (perhaps all) species of Philoplitis have an occipital carina. That feature was unfortunately overlooked by all authors until now: Nixon (1965) when describing the genus, Mason (1981) when discussing its position within the subfamily, Whitfield et al. (2002) when reassessing Microgastrinae phylogeny based on morphological and molecular data, and Fernandez-Triana & Goulet (2009) in the most recent revision of the genus. We also examined all specimens of Alloplitis in the CNC and found that at least some species show traces of an occipital carina, in a similar way to what is found in Tobleronius. It now seems clear that at least some lineages within Microplitini have an occipital carina, or at least traces of it.

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Oriental region (Thailand, Vietnam).

Three sequences are currently available, two almost complete (601 and 614 bp) and one partial (497 bp). They represent in BOLD two closely related BINS (BOLD:ADE3103 and BOLD:ADE4131), which are 3% different between each other, but are far apart from any other sequence (based on a Neighbor Joining tree built with 35,000+ Microgastrinae sequences available in BOLD as of January 2018).

The name refers to the chocolate brand “Toblerone”, one of the favourites of the first author. The shape of T2 looks like one of the triangles that compose Toblerone bars (if one has enough imagination and love for chocolate!). Here is hoping that someday a wasp-shaped chocolate bar is produced. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is recognized at present. However, the molecular differences (see above) as well as slight morphological differences between specimens from Thailand and Vietnam suggest that they could actually represent two different species. But because only three specimens were available for study, we prefer to keep them as one species for the time being.

Male, Vietnam, RMNH.

Vietnam. North Vietnam./Hoa Binh Pa Co Hang Kia/N.R., 20.743611°N, 104.938889°E, 1045m,/ MT, C.V./Achterberg & R. de Vries,/CNC521393, 9–23.X.2009. Second label: N. VIETNAM: Hoa Binh/Pa Co Hang Kia N.R., 1045m/22°44'37"N, 104°56'20"E, 9–23.x.2009, Mal. tr. 6, RMNH’09/C.v.Achterberg & R. de Vries.

VIETNAM, Hoa Binh Pa Co Hang Kia Nature Reserve, 20.743611°N, 104.938889°E, 1045m.

Thailand. (1♂ QSBG), Chiang Mai, Huai Nam Dang NP Visitor center, 19.313383, 98.606800, pan trap, 30.ix-1.x.2007, coll. Anuchart & Thawatchai, Voucher code: CNC521929. Vietnam. (1♂ CNC), North Vietnam. Hoa Binh Pa Co Hang Kia N.R., 20.745000, 104.892778, Malaise trap, 24.x.2009, coll. C.V. Achterberg & R. de Vries, Voucher code: CNC521392.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Male. Body mostly dark brown; palpi and anterior 0.6–0.7 of T1 white-yellow; mandibles, scape, pedicel and most of legs (except for posterior 0.2–0.3 of metatibia and metatarsus which are brown) yellow; anterior laterotergites and sternites white; flagellomeres brown; wings hyaline, most veins brown. Head with relatively large tentorial pits and palpi. Traces of an occipital carina latero-dorsally. Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively wide and deep, with 4–6 strongly defined crenulae. Scutellar disc with coarse and slightly raised posteromedian band of rugosity. Propodeum with complete areola and incomplete transversal carina. Fore wing with large and quadrate areolet. Metacoxa relatively long, extending to the posterior margin of T3. T1 shape relatively unique (better illustrated in Figs 36E, F, 37D–F), with much wider anterior 0.6–0.7 and strongly narrowed posterior 0.3, so that widest part of tergite (near anterior margin) is around 4.0 × narrowest width (on posterior margin). T1 anterior 0.6–0.7 desclerotized and slightly concave. T2 very long and thin, although slightly widening towards posterior margin. Area surrounding spiracles on laterotergite 2 partially sclerotized and same color than T2, giving the impression of T2 having “three peaks” (the largest and central one being the actual T2, the two smallest and lateral ones being the area surrounding spiracles on laterotergites; better illustrated in Figs 36E, F, 37D, F). T3+ smooth and with sparse, relatively long setae. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.26; F3 L: 0.28; F14 L: 0.23; F15 L: 0.23; Malar sulcus L: 0.08; Mandible W: 0.09; T1 L: 0.36; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.08; T1 maximum W: 0.30; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.08; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.49; T2 L: 0.25; Metafemur L: 0.83; Metafemur W: 0.23; Metatibia L: 1.07; Inner spur L: 0.20; Outer spur L: 0.18; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.42; Body L: 2.97; Fore wing L: 2.90. T1 L is approximate.

Female. Unknown.

Figure 36. 

Tobleronius orientalis male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum.

Figure 37. 

Tobleronius orientalis male paratype CNC521929. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal F Propodeum.

Host unknown.

Thailand, Vietnam.

The holotype and one paratype (CNC521392) rendered almost complete barcodes (601 and 614 bp respectively), whereas for the other paratype a partial sequence (497 bp) was also available. Those sequences represent in BOLD two closely related BINS (BOLD:ADE3103 and BOLD:ADE4131), which are 3% different. As explained in the genus description, for the time being we prefer to consider all those specimens as belonging to the same species, although barcodes suggest they could actually represent two different species.

The species refer to the species distribution in the Oriental region.

Ungunicus vietnamensis Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Body mostly smooth, with few, scattered, mostly shallow punctures. Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulcus. Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively narrow but with numerous crenulae (Fig. 38E). Scutellar disc smooth, without posteromedian band of rugosity (Fig. 38E). Propodeum mostly smooth, with strongly defined median longitudinal carina and a few short carinae radiating from median one (Fig. 38E). Fore wing with quadrangular areolet (Fig. 38C). Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metacoxa reaching to the posterior margin of T3. Last segment of tarsi relatively large, with small setae or spine (peg-like) on apical half, near the claws (Fig. 39I). Tarsal claws unique in Microgastrinae (better seen in Fig. 39F–I), with a very large basal tooth (longer than tarsal claw apex), and a median lobe (with setae arising from its margin, which seems slightly bilobate). T1 with central sulcus on anterior half, T2+ smooth (Fig. 38D, E). Ovipositor short but relatively thick and strongly curved downwards (Fig. 38A). Ovipositor sheaths with few, sparse, but relatively long setae.

Ungunicus seems to be related to some species of Diolcogaster (sharing with it the ovipositor shape, ovipositor sheaths with setae, and T1 with medium sulcus; but differing in the mostly smooth body, lack of posteromedian band of rugosity on scutellar disc, and shape of tarsal claws) and Rasivalva (sharing with it the relatively smooth body and absence of a posteromedian band of rugosity on scutellar disc; but differing in having relatively long setae on ovipositor sheaths and shape of tarsal claws). The tarsal claws are truly unique within Microgastrinae, and serve as the main diagnostic character as well as the main putative autapomorphy.

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Oriental region (Vietnam).

Both the holotype and paratype rendered almost full barcode sequences, representing BIN BOLD:ADE2636, which is different by 8.7% of the closest Microgastrinae sequences currently available in BOLD.

From “ungu” (in Latin “claw”, “hoof”, “nail”) and “unicus” (in Latin “unique”), referring to the highly unusual and remarkable structure of the tarsal claws found in this genus. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Female, Vietnam, RMNH.

Vietnam, Hoa Binh Pa/Co Hang Kia N.R./20.743058°N, 104.895833°E,/1319m, 10–24.X.2009,/MT, C. V. Achterberg & R./de Vries, CNC521412. Second label: N. VIETNAM: Hoa Binh/Pa Co Hang Kia N.R., 1319m/20°44'35"N, 104°53'45"E, 10–24.x.2009, Mal. tr. 14, RMNH’09/C. v. Achterberg & R. de Vries.

VIETNAM, Hoa Binh Province, Pa Co Hang Kia Nature Reserve, 20.743058°N, 104.895833°E, 1319m.

Vietnam. (1♀ CNC), same locality than holotype, Voucher code: CNC521411.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Female. Head and mesosoma dark brown to black; metasoma mostly brown, with anterior four laterotergites and sternites white or yellow; palpi, mandibles, scape, pedicel and most of legs (except for metatibia and metatarsus which are slightly darker) yellow; flagellomeres brown; wings hyaline, most veins white, pterostigma light brown-yellow. Body mostly smooth, with few, scattered, mostly shallow punctures. Flagellomeres with two rows of placodes. Pronotum with dorsal and ventral sulcus. Scutoscutellar sulcus relatively narrow but with numerous crenulae. Scutellar disc smooth, without posteromedian band of rugosity. Propodeum mostly smooth, with strongly defined median longitudinal carina and a few short carinae radiating from median one. Fore wing with quadrangular areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe entirely setose. Metacoxa reaching to the posterior margin of T3. Last segment of tarsi relatively large, with small setae or spine (peg-like) on apical half, near the claws. Tarsal claws unique in Microgastrinae (better seen in Figs 39F-I), with a very large basal tooth (longer than tarsal claw apex), and a median lobe (with setae arising from its margin, which seems slightly bilobate). T1 with central sulcus on anterior half, T2+ smooth. Ovipositor short but relatively thick and strongly curved downwards. Ovipositor sheaths with few, sparse, but relatively long setae. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.19 (0.20); F3 L: 0.18 (0.18); F14 L: 0.11 (0.11); F15 L: 0.11 (0.10); Malar sulcus L: 0.06 (0.06); Mandible W: 0.08 (0.10); T1 L: 0.36 (0.33); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.09 (0.12); T1 maximum W: 0.14 (0.16); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.11 (0.13); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.38 (0.33); T2 L: 0.17 (0.17); Metafemur L: 0.65 (0.67); Metafemur W: 0.18 (0.18); Metatibia L: 0.83 (0.85); Inner spur L: 0.13 (0.15); Outer spur L: 0.12 (0.14); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.29 (0.30); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.26 (0.26); Body L: 2.06 (2.20); Fore wing L: 2.45 (2.55). Maximum W of T1 and T2 W at posterior margin are approximate for 2 specimens. T1 L, T1 W at posterior margin and T2 W at anterior margin are approximate for 1 specimen.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 38. 

Ungunicus vietnamensis female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal.

Figure 39. 

Ungunicus vietnamensis female holotype, details of metatarsus and claws. F Dorsal G Ventral H Ventro-lateral I Last segment of metatarsus and claws, ventro-lateral.

Host unknown.

Vietnam.

Both the holotype and paratype rendered almost full barcode sequences (629 and 632 bp), representing BIN BOLD:ADE2636, which is 8.7% different from the closest Microgastrinae sequences currently available in BOLD.

Named after the country of the type locality.

Ypsilonigaster tiger Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Face with strong sulcus medially near antennal base. Scutellar disc flat, entirely smooth, and shiny (Figs 41D, 43E, 44C, E, 45G). Propodeum mostly smooth but with strong median carina (Figs 41D, 43E, 44E). Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Metatibia with short, stout spines dorsally. T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y” (Figs 40B, 41E, F, 42A, 43D, E, 44B–C, E, 45D, H). Hypopygium unfolded and inflexible (Figs 41A, 42C, 44A). Ovipositor relatively strongly curved downwards (Figs 41A, 42C, 44A). Ovipositor sheaths thoroughly covered by setae (Fig. 44A).

Ypsilonigaster has T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y”, a unique feature within Microgastrinae. Ypsilonigaster seems to be related to other Old World genera with strong median carina on propodeum, fore wing areolet, and relatively long ovipositor sheaths (e.g., Choeras s.l., see Discussion below), but differs from most of those genera by having an unfolded and inflexible hypopygium.

Host unknown.

All known species are found in the Old World tropics (Afrotropical and Oriental regions).

Two DNA barcodes are available, both very distant from any other Microgastrinae sequence available in BOLD (8–10% of base pair differences). However, those two sequences (which were obtained from two different species and belong to BINs BOLD:AAV2124 and BOLD:ABY3660) which are also very different from each other and cluster very separate (based on a Neighbor Joining tree built with 35,000+ Microgastrinae sequences available in BOLD as of January 2018).

From “Ypsilon” (in several languages an alternative form or synonym of the ancient Greek letter “Upsilon”, which is depicted as a “Y”) and “gaster” (in Greek “stomach” or “abdomen”, also used for the metasoma in Hymenoptera), referring to the Y-shaped sulcus in the first tergite of metasoma that characterizes this genus. The gender of the genus is neuter.

We recognize at least six different species, four of them new and described below. They can be separate using the following key.

Female, Democratic Republic of the Congo, RMCA (Musee Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium). Not examined, but original description checked.

Y. bumbana can be separate from all known species of Ypsilonigaster (except for Y. pteroloba) based on its darker body color (red-yellow) and infumated wings (all other species are mostly yellow or white-yellow, or have body with striking contrast of four different colors between areas, and all have hyaline wings). Y. bumbana can in turn be differentiated from Y. pteroloba because it has a mostly red-yellow body color, a less constricted T1 and the fore wing veins r and 2RS join in a more acute angle (compare Figs 40A, B with Figs 42A, B).

Figure 40. 

Ypsilonigaster bumbana holotype based on modified drawings from the original descriptions of the species (de Saeger 1942). A Fore wing B Tergites 1 to 3.

Host unknown.

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

No molecular data available.

Female, Malaysia, RMNH.

MALAYSIA: SE.SABAH/nr Danum Valley Field C./WON1, Mal. trap 5, c.150m/5–26.x.1987, RMNH’87/C.v.Achterberg &D.Kennedy. Second label: CNC878528.

MALAYSIA, South-East Sabah, near Danum Valley, Field C., 150m.

Malaysia. (3♀ RMNH, CNC), same locality than holotype, Voucher codes: CNC878529, CNC878530, CNC878531.

The combination of body colour mostly yellow (but with back of head and anteromesoscutum orange to orange-brown; antenna, tegula and humeral complex brown; and tergites 5+ mostly brown) and T1 sculpture and shape (T1 smooth and strongly narrowing towards posterior margin, its width at anterior margin at least 1.2 × its width at posterior margin) are enough to separate Y. naturalis from all other known species in the genus.

Body colour mostly yellow (but with back of head and anteromesoscutum orange to orange-brown; antenna, tegula and humeral complex brown; and tergites 5+ mostly brown). Body mostly smooth (including most of propodeum, entire scutellar disc, and most tergites except for T2 which is coarsely sculptured), anteromesoscutum sparsely punctate. Scutoscutellar sulcus with 10 crenulae. Lunules relatively low (around 0.3 × height of lateral face of scutellum). Propodeum with strongly raised, median carina. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with more or less straight vannal lobe which is uniformly setose. Metafemur L 3.10–3.14 × its W. Metatibial inner spur L 1.55–1.88 × metatibia outer spur L; metatibia inner spur 0.61–0.71 × first segment of metatarsus L. T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y”; T1 L 1.70–1.88 × T1 width at posterior margin. T2 subtriangular; T2 width at posterior margin 3.28–4.21 × T2 L. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and 0.65–0.67 × as long as metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.28 (0.28); F3 L: 0.27 (0.27); F14 L: 0.21 (0.21); F15 L: 0.18 (0.18–0.19); Malar sulcus L: 0.08 (0.08); Mandible W: 0.12 (0.12–0.13); T1 L: 0.64 (0.67–0.68); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.36 (0.36–0.39); T1 maximum W: 0.59 (0.58–0.63); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.38 (0.34–0.38); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.68 (0.67–0.68); T2 L: 0.21 (0.16–0.19); Metafemur L: 1.16 (1.14–1.15); Metafemur W: 0.38 (0.37); Metatibia L: 1.36 (1.33–1.39); Inner spur L: 0.38 (0.41); Outer spur L: 0.24 (0.22–0.25); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.62 (0.58); Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.88 (0.88–0.93); Body L: 3.80 (3.64–3.96); Fore wing L: 3.92 (3.64–3.92). Maximum W of T1 and T2 W at anterior margin are approximate for 2 specimens. T1 L is approximate for 3 specimens. T1 W at posterior margin and T2 W at posterior margin are approximate for 1 specimen.

Figure 41. 

Ypsilonigaster naturalis female holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Head and mesosoma, dorsal E Metasoma dorsal F Propodeum.

Unknown.

Host unknown.

Only known from the type locality in Malaysia.

No molecular data available.

Named after the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden (the Netherlands) in recognition of the outstanding and important collection of 18+ million insect specimens that institution holds, including one of the largest and most complete Microgastrinae collection in the world.

Female, Democratic Republic of the Congo, RMCA (Musée Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium). Not examined, but original description checked.

Y. pteroloba can be separate from all known species of Ypsilonigaster (except for Y. bumbana) based on its darker body color (dark brown to black) and infumated wings (all other species are mostly yellow or white-yellow, or have body with striking contrast of four different colors between areas, and all have hyaline wings). Y. pteroloba can in turn be differentiated from Y. bumbana because the later has a mostly red-yellow body color, a less constricted T1 and the fore wing veins r and 2RS join in a more acute angle (compare Figs 40A, B with Fig. 42A, B).

Figure 42. 

Ypsilonigaster pteroloba holotype based on modified drawings from the original descriptions of the species (de Saeger 1944). A Tergites 1 to 3 B Fore wing details of pterostigma and nearby veins C Hypopygium, ovipositor and ovipositor sheaths.

Host unknown.

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

No molecular data available.

Male, Republic of the Congo, CNC.

REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO:/Pool, Abio Lesio-Loun Pk,/330m, 09.xi.2008/3°06.020'S, 015°31.440'E/Sharkey & Braet. Second label: JMIC 0517.

REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO, Abio-Lesio Louna Park, 3°06.020'S, 015°31.440'E, pool, 330m.

Ypsilonigaster sharkeyi can be distinguished from all other known species in the genus due to the unique sculpture pattern and shape of T1 (T1 width at anterior and posterior margins about the same, and with rather coarse sculpture on posterior 0.3).

Female unknown. Male. Body colour mostly yellow (but with antenna brown and tergites 3+ mostly brown). Body mostly smooth (including most of propodeum, entire scutellar disc, and most tergites except for posterior 0.3 of T1 and T2 which are coarsely sculptured), anteromesoscutum sparsely punctate. Scutoscutellar sulcus with 7 crenulae. Lunules relatively low (around 0.25 × height of lateral face of scutellum). Propodeum with strongly raised, median carina. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with vannal lobe slightly concave centrally, and without setae on that central area. Metafemur L 3.42 × its W. Metatibial inner spur L 1.65 × metatibia outer spur L; metatibia inner spur 0.55 × first segment of metatarsus L. T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y”; T1 L 1.38 × T1 W at posterior margin. T2 subtriangular; T2 width at posterior margin 3.05 × T2 L Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.25; F3 L: 0.26; F14 L: 0.23; F15 L: 0.21; Malar sulcus L: 0.08; Mandible W: 0.10; T1 L: 0.46; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.33; T1 maximum W: 0.33; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.26; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.46; T2 L: 0.15; Metafemur L: 0.88; Metafemur W: 0.26; Metatibia L: 1.07; Inner spur L: 0.28; Outer spur L: 0.17; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.50; Body L: 2.63; Fore wing L: 3.00. Mandible W is approximate.

Figure 43. 

Ypsilonigaster sharkeyi male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Head and mesosoma, dorsal.

Host unknown.

Only known from the type locality in southeastern Republic of the Congo.

The holotype rendered an almost complete DNA barcode (621 bp), which represents BIN BOLD:AAV2124. That sequence is 8.02% different from the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD.

Named after Michael Sharkey, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of parasitoid wasps, and also for sending the first author valuable specimens –some of which were studied and are part of this paper.

Female, Thailand, QSBG.

THAILAND Chiang Mai/Huai Nam Dang NP Guest House/19°18.803'N, 98°36.395'E/Malaise trap 31.x-7.xi.2007/Anuchart & Thawatchai leg. T5553. Second label: JMIC 0536.

THAILAND, Chiang Mai Province, Huai Nam Dang National Park Guest House, 19°18.803'N,t 98°36.395'E.

This species is very distinctive due to its unusual coloration pattern, which includes contrasting areas in white, yellow, brown and black. It also has the shortest ovipositor sheaths and the longest fore wing among the known species in the genus.

Body with striking contrast of four different colors between areas (yellow on head, front legs, and anterior half of mesosoma; black on posterior half of mesosoma and hind legs; white on T1, parts of T2/T3, some laterotergites and metatibial spines; brown on antenna, middle legs and most of metasoma). Tegula (yellow) and humeral complex (dark brown) differently coloured. Body mostly smooth, including propodeum, entire scutellar disc, and all tergites (but anteromesoscutum with shallow punctures all over except for notauli). Scutoscutellar sulcus with 9–10 crenulae. Lunules relatively normal (around 0.4 × height of lateral face of scutellum). Propodeum with strongly raised, median carina. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with more or less straight vannal lobe which is uniformly setose. Metafemur L 2.98 × its W. Metatibial inner spur L 1.79 × metatibia outer spur L; metatibia inner spur 0.62 × first segment of metatarsus L. T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y”; T1 L 2.53 × T1 width at posterior margin. T2 subtriangular; T2 width at posterior margin 3.0 × T2 L. Ovipositor sheaths uniformly setose and 0.48 × as long as metatibia length. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.33; F3 L: 0.32; F14 L: 0.24; F15 L: 0.21; Malar sulcus L: 0.08; Mandible W: 0.13; T1 L: 0.76; T1 W at posterior margin: 0.30; T1 maximum W: 0.54; T2 W at anterior margin: 0.23; T2 W at posterior margin: 0.63; T2 L: 0.21; Metafemur L: 1.28; Metafemur W: 0.43; Metatibia L: 1.52; Inner spur L: 0.43; Outer spur L: 0.24; First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.69; Ovipositor sheaths L: 0.73; Body L: 3.84; Fore wing L: 4.60. Fore wing L is approximate.

Male. Unknown.

Figure 44. 

Ypsilonigaster tiger female holotype. A Habitus B Tergite 1 C Mesosoma dorsal D Mesosoma lateral E Propodeum.

Host unknown.

Only known from the type locality in northern Thailand.

The holotype rendered an almost complete DNA barcode (622 bp), which represents BIN BOLD:ABY3660, a unique sequence that is 9.86% different from the closest Microgastrinae in BOLD.

Named after the Thailand Inventory Group for Entomological Research (TIGER), a collaborative project between the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden and the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department with the goal of conducting inventories of insect biodiversity in Thailand (see also: http://www.sharkeylab.org/tiger/). All specimens of Thailand studied for this paper came from those inventories, and will be deposited in the QSBG for future reference.

Male, Madagascar, CAS.

MADAGASCAR: Majunga/Ambatofolaka, Namoroka/53km from Soalala 3km N/Vitanandro village. Second label: 30.xi-9.xii.2007, elev. 400ft/16°28.4'S, 45°23.48'E, Calif./Acad. Of Sciences coll: Irwin,/Harin’Hala, malaise trap in/dense dry forest, MG040A-10. Third label: CNC878532.

MADAGASCAR, Majunga, Ambatofolaka, Namoroka, 53 km from Soalala, 3km North of Vitanandro village, 16°28.4'S, 45°23.48'E, 400ft, dense dry forest.

Madagascar. (1♂ CNC), same locality than holotype, Voucher code: CNC878533.

The combination of body colour mostly white-yellow and T1 sculpture and shape (T1 smooth and strongly narrowing towards posterior margin, its width at anterior margin at least 1.2 × its width at posterior margin) are enough to separate Y. zuparkoi from all other known species in the genus.

Female unknown. Male. Body colour mostly white-yellow (only ventral sides of scape and F1–F2 brown). Body mostly smooth (including most of propodeum, entire scutellar disc, and most tergites except for T2 which is slightly duller), anteromesoscutum sparsely punctate. Scutoscutellar sulcus with 10 crenulae. Lunules relatively low (around 0.25 × height of lateral face of scutellum). Propodeum with strongly raised, median carina. Fore wing with small, slit-shaped areolet. Hind wing with more or less straight vannal lobe which is uniformly setose. Metafemur L 2.66–2.78 × its W. Metatibial inner spur L 1.59–1.67 × metatibia outer spur L; metatibia inner spur 0.58–0.64 × first segment of metatarsus L. T1 divided in three areas by a strong sulcus shaped as an inverted “Y”; T1 L 2.00–2.41 × T1 width at posterior margin. T2 subtriangular; T2 width at posterior margin 2.95–3.47 × T2 L. Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.26 (0.26); F3 L: 0.26 (0.26); F14 L: 0.22 (0.23); F15 L: 0.21 (0.21); Malar sulcus L: 0.08 (0.09); Mandible W: 0.13 (0.10); T1 L: 0.50 (0.54); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.25 (0.23); T1 maximum W: 0.33 (0.46); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.23 (0.18); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.49 (0.55); T2 L: 0.17 (0.16); Metafemur L: 0.93 (0.98); Metafemur W: 0.33 (0.37); Metatibia L: 1.04 (1.08); Inner spur L: 0.29 (0.29); Outer spur L: 0.18 (0.18); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.46 (0.50); Body L: 3.03 (3.28); Fore wing L: 2.75 (2.90).

Female. Unknown.

Figure 45. 

Ypsilonigaster zuparkoi male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing and hind wing D Metasoma dorsal E Genitalia F Metatibia G Head and mesosoma, dorsal H Tergites 1 to 2.

Host unknown.

Madagascar.

No molecular data available.

Named after Robert Zuparko, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of parasitoid wasps, and also for sending the first author valuable specimens –some of which were studied and are part of this paper.

Zachterbergius tenuitergum Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, here designated.

Labial palpi very long, extending to mesopleuron (Fig. 46A, B). Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a small triangular flange which has a median carina (Fig. 46B). Scape relatively very transverse (Fig. 46B). Flagellomere with two rows of placodes. Polished band of scutellum interrupted medially by band of rugosity (Figs 46E, F, 47B). Propodeum with clearly defined median carina and partially defined transverse carina and apical part of an areola (Figs 46E, F, 47A, B). Fore wing with quadrangulate areolet (Fig. 46C). T1 with broad depression on anterior half (Figs 46D, 47A, B). T2 longest and thinnest of Microgastrinae (T2 L 4.0 × its width at base and apex, T2 0.7–0.8 × as long as T1 L, T2 around 1.5 × as long as T3 L) (Figs 46D, E, 47A, B).

The relationships of Zachterbergius with other genera of Microgastrinae are not clear at present. The length of T2 is unique among known species of Microgastrinae. The propodeum carination pattern is uncommon in the subfamily, as are the scape shape and elongate labial palpi. The available barcode sequence is also very different from all other known barcodes within the subfamily.

Host unknown.

The only known species is found in the Oriental region (Thailand).

A single sequence is available, representing BIN BOLD:AAV2126, which is 15.6% different than the closest sequence available in BOLD.

The genus name refers to and honors the Dutch braconid expert Kees van Achterberg, in recognition of his significant contributions to the knowledge of Braconidae of the world, as well as other Hymenoptera groups. Over the years Kees has been a dear friend, mentor and colleague of the first author, and has kindly supported his work on Microgastrinae. The letter “Z” was added at the beginning of the name to guarantee the uniqueness of the name and avoid potential homonyms -due to the large number of taxa named after Kees van Achterberg. The gender of the genus is neuter.

Only one species is known.

Male, Thailand, QSBG.

THAILAND: Chiang Mai huai/Nam Dang NP Helipad/19°18.33'N, 98°36.289'E/30.xii.2007–7.i.2008/Anuchart leg. T5597. Second label: CNC878554.

THAILAND, Chiang Mai Province, Huai Nam Dang National Park, Helipad, 19°18.33'N, 98°36.289'E.

Paratype. Thailand. (1♂ QSBG), Chiang Mai, Huai Nam Dang NP, visitor center, 19.188000, 98.364000, 28.x.2007, coll. Anuchart, Thawatchai, Voucher code: JMIC0538.

This is the only known species in the genus so far, thus the generic diagnosis works as the species diagnosis as well.

Male. Body mostly brown to dark brown; palpi and first few laterotergites and sternites white; scape, pedicel and labrum yellow-white; flagellomeres light brown; propleuron and pronotum yellow-orange (darker in pronotum); legs mostly yellow-white (except for posterior 0.3 of metatibia and metatarsus which are brown); wings hyaline, most veins brown, pterostigma brown with pale spot on anterior 0.2. Labial palpi very long, extending to mesopleuron. Upper margin of face produced dorsally between the antennal insertions into a small triangular flange which has a median carina. Scape relatively very transverse (Fig. 46B). Flagellomere with two rows of placodes. Polished band of scutellum interrupted medially by band of rugosity. Propodeum with clearly defined median carina and partially defined transverse carina and apical part of an areola. Fore wing with quadrangulate areolet. T1 with broad depression on anterior half. T2 longest and thinnest of Microgastrinae (T2 L 4.0 × its width at base and apex, T2 0.7–0.8 × as long as T1 L, T2 around 1.5 × as long as T3 L). Body measurements (mm). F2 L: 0.29 (0.30); F3 L: 0.28 (0.29); F14 L: 0.24 (0.26); F15 L: 0.23 (0.25); Malar sulcus L: 0.08 (0.09); Mandible W: 0.08 (0.08); T1 L: 0.33 (0.33); T1 W at posterior margin: 0.09 (0.08); T1 maximum W: 0.24 (0.26); T2 W at anterior margin: 0.05 (0.06); T2 W at posterior margin: 0.16 (0.23); T2 L: 0.27 (0.30); Metafemur L: 0.88 (0.89); Metafemur W: 0.19 (0.20); Metatibia L: 1.10 (1.10); Inner spur L: 0.25 (0.26); Outer spur L: 0.21 (0.22); First segment of Metatarsus L: 0.53 (0.52); Body L: 2.80 (2.75); Fore wing L: 2.90 (3.00).

Female. Unknown.

Figure 46. 

Zachterbergius tenuitergum male holotype. A Habitus B Head frontal C Fore wing D Metasoma dorsal E Propodeum F Head and mesosoma, dorsal.

Figure 47. 

Zachterbergius tenuitergum male paratype JMIC 0538. A Habitus dorsal B Mesosoma and metasoma, dorsal.

Host unknown.

Thailand.

A single sequence was obtained from the paratype, representing BIN BOLD:AAV2126, which is 15.6% different than the closest sequence available in BOLD.

From “tenuis” (in Latin “thin”), and “tergum” (in Latin “back”, also used as the dorsal/upper portion of an arthropod segment), referring the very thin second tergite of metasoma.