DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.206488

Authors: Zhi-Xuan Liu, Natapot Warrit, Ming-Hui Song, Rui-Chong Wang, Kai Hao, Shi-Xiao Luo, Hua-Yan Chen

Abstract: Coastal ecosystems present critical nesting habitats for stem-nesting bees, yet the role of littoral shrubs as nesting substrates remains poorly documented. We investigated the nesting biology of bee communities utilizing dead twigs of the widespread coastal shrub Scaevola taccada (Goodeniaceae) on Hainan, China. From 172 dissected nests, we identified five bee species: Braunsapis hewitti, Ceratina dentipes, Ceratina smaragdula, Ceratina taiwanensis, and Heriades sauteri. All species constructed linear nests in the pithy stems, but exhibited significant interspecific differences in nest architecture. Nest entrance diameter varied significantly among species, with C. dentipes using the narrowest twigs (2.73 ± 0.31 mm) and C. taiwanensis the widest (4.13 ± 0.52 mm). For the four cell-building species, the number of brood cells per nest also differed significantly, with H. sauteri (5.29 ± 2.63) and C. taiwanensis (5.39 ± 3.53) producing more cells than C. smaragdula (2.54 ± 1.68) and C. dentipes (2.25 ± 1.89). Uniquely, B. hewitti did not construct cell partitions, rearing brood communally in a single linear chamber with progressive provisioning. Nest materials varied from chewed pith partitions in Ceratina spp. to resin partitions in H. sauteri. Microscopic analysis of pollen slides prepared from pollen-nectar provisions and larval feces confirmed that intact and identifiable pollen grains are well-preserved, demonstrating a direct and effective approach for elucidating the dietary breadth of these bees in pollinating costal plants. Our findings, particularly the differential use of S. taccada twigs by diameter, suggest resource partitioning that may facilitate species coexistence, and highlight the critical importance of preserving coastal shrublands as essential nesting resources for maintaining diverse pollinator communities in tropical and subtropical coastal ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.195208

Authors: Sergio Hipólito-López, Moisés Camacho-Tapia, Fabiana Edith Gallardo, Guy Smagghe, Oscar Morales-Galván, Ana Mabel Martínez-Castillo, Samuel Pineda-Guillermo

Abstract: The lance fly Neosilba batesi (Curran, 1932) (Diptera: Lonchaeidae) has traditionally been regarded as a secondary colonizer of damaged fruits, yet recent observations suggest it may infest developing avocado (Persea americana Miller, 1768) fruits and contribute to premature fruit drop. Despite its potential economic importance, little is known about its natural enemies. In May 2025, fallen avocados were collected in Michoacán, Mexico, and puparia of N. batesi were reared under laboratory conditions to investigate associated parasitoids. A figitid parasitoid was recovered and morphologically identified. Morphological characters of females corresponded to Lopheucoila mexicana Weld, 1951 (Hymenoptera: Figitidae: Eucoilinae). Parasitism in field-collected puparia reached 4.7%. The duration of the egg-to-adult developmental period of this parasitoid could not be determined directly because the timing of oviposition by parasitoid females on the host larvae was unknown. A total of 1,933 N. batesi puparia were obtained from 125 avocado fruits collected in the field. Of these, 42 parasitoid adults emerged between 37 and 43 days after the infested avocado fruits were collected. The highest number of parasitoids emerged on day 44 (n = 20). After this day, the number of parasitoids emerging was 27 between 45 and 49 d. Other two parasitoids were recovered through dissection of the puparia. The sex ratio was female-biased (63.73%). The present study provides the first confirmed host record for L. mexicana and the first documentation of this parasitoid-host association in avocado. These findings expand current knowledge of Eucoilinae biology and highlight the potential role of native parasitoids in regulating N. batesi populations in avocado agroecosystems. They provide the basis for further work on its ecological role and applicability in biological control.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.205327

Authors: Milan Palík, Attila Balázs, Petr Janšta

Abstract: Semi-natural dry grasslands of Central Europe represent important biodiversity hotspots but are increasingly affected by land-use change and restoration management practices, including prescribed burning. Although fire is applied to maintain open grassland structure, its effects on microhymenopterans remain poorly understood. We investigated the responses of microhymenoptera assemblages to contrasting fire regimes in xerothermic grasslands. We compared abandoned unburned sites with sites exposed to prescribed burning differing in frequency and time since fire. Sampling was conducted using Malaise traps from April to July 2024 across nine localities. In total, 3,975 specimens representing six superfamilies and several families of the Chalcidoidea superfamily were analysed using generalized linear mixed models. Microhymenoptera abundance was generally highest in unburned control sites, indicating that long-term abandonment provides relatively stable and resource-rich conditions. However, sites sampled one year after fire showed a temporary increase in abundance, suggesting a short-term positive response during early post-fire succession. In contrast, sites sampled shortly after the most recent burn, whether burned once or in successive years showed significantly reduced abundance across several dominant groups, particularly Chalcidoidea and within it Mymaridae and Aphelinidae. Seasonality strongly influenced microhymenoptera dynamics, with abundance consistently declining from spring to mid-summer across all management regimes. Our results demonstrate that the ecological effects of prescribed burning on microhymenoptera communities are strongly influenced by fire frequency. While burning followed by at least one full growing season of undisturbed recovery may enhance abundance through opened vegetation structure and post-fire recolonisation, short intervals between successive burns appear detrimental to microhymenopteran populations. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining a heterogeneous mosaic of burned and unburned habitats for biodiversity conservation in species-rich xerothermic grasslands.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.202665

Authors: Boyu Zou, Douglas Chesters, Runze Yu, Huanji Liu, Hongliang Li, Hui Xiao, Chaodong Zhu, Yanzhou Zhang

Abstract: In the family Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea), many species attack psyllids (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) and, thus, are instrumental in controlling populations of those hosts. However, successful biological control requires accurate identification of encyrtid parasitoids and a clear picture of specificity in host-parasitoid interactions. Taxonomic classification, species delimitation and host affiliation remain challenging for researchers due to their the small size of parasitoid wasps, morphological complexity, and the prevalence of cryptic species in the family. In the present paper, we conducted a DNA barcoding study of encyrtid parasitoids of psyllids collected from many provinces throughout China over the past two decades. We analyzed host specificity within an integrative taxonomic framework that combined both morphological data and DNA barcodes. Multiple species-delimitation analyses (ABGD, ASAP, GMYC and bPTP) were used, with a range of 32 to 47 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) returned, indicating cryptic diversity among morphological forms. By integrating morphological evidence with molecular species-delimitation results, we recognized 32 species in our samples. Host specificity analysis indicated more than 80% of parasitoid species were strictly monophagous, each parasitizing no more than a single psyllid species. This study provides a preliminary clarification of the species status of Chinese encyrtids parasitoids of psyllids and establishes a DNA barcode database covering their diversity.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.200280

Authors: Eric R. Jacobo-Macías, J. Refugio Lomeli-Flores, Esteban Rodríguez-Leyva, Ariel W. Guzmán-Franco, Jorge M. Valdez-Carrasco, Héctor González-Hernández, Agustín Robles-Bermúdez

Abstract: Two species of gall midges have been associated with the deformation of small avocado fruits in several Central American countries. In recent years, similar symptoms were detected in a small avocado-producing region in Nayarit, Mexico. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the insect species associated with those avocado damage symptoms and its natural enemies. Sampling was conducted during the main flowering and initial fruit set period across five sites. A total of 944 deformed fruits, 1 to 2 cm in diameter, were collected and kept in 500 ml plastic containers to await the emergence of flies and parasitoids. Fruits from which no insect emergence occurred were dissected. This information was used to estimate the parasitism rate. In the study area, only Bruggmanniella perseae Gagné, 2004 (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) was identified infesting avocado fruits of Hass and Mendez varieties. Furthermore, four genera and six species of parasitoids were recovered. The highest parasitism rate was recorded in the Mendez variety (31.49%). The highest parasitism rate (16.69%) was caused by Rileya insularis (Ashmead, 1894) (Chalcidoidea, Eurytomidae), followed by Torymus umbilicatus (Gahan, 1919) (Chalcidoidea, Torymidae), and two species of Galeopsomyia Girault, 1916 [G. perseae Hansson, 2023 and G. gonzalezi Hansson, 2023 (Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae)]. This work provides the first characterization of the male of G. perseae and includes images to facilitate identification of all recovered parasitoid species.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.211445

Authors: Cory S. Sheffield

Abstract: When it was described, the Australian bee Leioproctus idiotropoptera Packer, 2006 could not be placed to subgenus. Since then, several subgenera of Leioproctus Smith, 1853 from that region have been revised, and for some the diagnoses have broadened and the taxon concepts have been redefined, though this species remained unplaced. More recently, L. idiotropoptera was made the type species for the monotypic Packercolletes Engel, 2022, one of two genera recognized within subtribe Baeocolletina Engel, 2022 though little evidence was provided to support this placement, or to justify recognizing the genus-group name based on modern taxon concepts of Australian Leioproctus. Despite its morphological uniqueness, especially in the male specimen, L. idiotropoptera is here considered an atypical member of Leioproctus (Colletellus) Michener, 1965 based on revised diagnostic characters for that taxon; Packercolletes is considered a syn. nov. of Leioproctus (Colletellus).

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.206068

Authors: Marcel Kettermann, Juliana Klaren, Christina Rupprecht, Christoph Bleidorn, Thomas Fartmann

Abstract: Rare developmental anomalies can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of sex differentiation, particularly when they manifest in clearly defined morphological patterns. In this study, we describe the first recorded gynandromorph of Andrena florivaga and a further gynandromorphic specimen of Nomada lathburiana from Germany. The Andrena florivaga specimen shows a predominantly bilateral display of sexually dimorphic traits, with male structures largely restricted to one side of the body while female traits dominate the opposite side; the head and forelegs represent entirely the female state. This pattern continues across the mesosoma, legs, and metasoma and involves both secondary sexual characters and terminal structures. The second specimen was identified as Nomada lathburiana and exhibits a mainly bilateral separation of male and female morphology, particularly in the tergites, sternites, mesosomal pubescence, and leg coloration. However, within certain body regions the assignment of traits alternates and transitions become indistinct, resulting in a bilateral gynandromorph with mosaic elements. The first recorded case of gynandromorphy in Andrena florivaga, together with a further morphologically distinct specimen of Nomada lathburiana, expands the known range of gynandromorphic phenotypes in wild bees and highlights the value of such anomalies for understanding sex differentiation and morphological pattern formation in Hymenoptera.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.188661

Authors: Cheng-jin Yan, Zhenhua Zu, Cornelis van Achterberg, Sufeng Pan, Norman F. Johnson

Abstract: Two new species belonging to the subgenus Aliolus Say, 1836 of the genus Eubazus Nees, 1812 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Brachistinae) from the Nearctic region are described and illustrated, Eubazus (Aliolus) confragosus Yan, sp. nov. and Eubazus (Aliolus) rhyssoeubazus Yan, sp. nov. An updated key to the Nearctic species of the subgenus Aliolus is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.190905

Authors: Emil M. Österman, Tapani Hopkins, Kari M. Kaunisto, Isrrael C. Gómez, Iida A. E. Österman, Ilari E. Sääksjärvi

Abstract: Brachycyrtinae is a small subfamily of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) containing one distinctive genus: Brachycyrtus Kriechbaumer, 1880. Here, we report the local diversity of brachycyrtines collected by extensive sampling in the Neotropics and Afrotropics and expand the distributional records of eleven Neotropical and one Afrotropical species. We provide identification keys and minimal diagnoses for all known Neotropical and Afrotropical species, list all known Afrotropical brachycyrtine material, and discuss the phenology, habitat use, and morphological variation of selected species. We compare the local species richness of tropical rain forest sites in Peru and Uganda. Additionally, we describe B. granulatus Österman & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov. and B. politus Österman & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov. from Ecuador and Peru, the males of B. convergens Cushman, 1936 and B. antoninoi Di Giovanni, 2021, and synonymise B. zani Gauld & Ward, 2000 (syn. nov.) with B. xorix Gauld & Ward, 2000.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.205393

Authors: Yu-Ran Li, Astrid Cruaud, Sabine Nidelet, Yan-Qiong Peng, Jean-Yves Rasplus

Abstract: Philotrypesis Förster is one of the most species-rich genera of non-pollinating fig wasps associated with Old World fig trees (Moraceae, Ficus). Philoverdance Priyadarsanan was initially established to accommodate a morphologically distinctive species of Philotrypesis associated with Ficus tinctoria in India, but its phylogenetic position remained uncertain. We reassessed the status of Philoverdance using morphology and genomic data. Philoverdance was recovered nested within Philotrypesis, supporting its synonymization with Philotrypesis syn. nov. and its treatment as the P. ravii species group. In depth analysis of the species group revealed five species associated with F. tinctoria: P. ravii Priyadarsanan, P. minang Li & Rasplus, sp. nov. (Sunda), P. bannaensis Li & Rasplus, sp. nov. (Sino-Himalaya), P. paiwan Li & Rasplus, sp. nov. (Sino-Himalaya), and P. arfak Li & Rasplus, sp. nov. (Australasia). COI divergences among species ranged from 6.1 to 8.4%, supporting their distinctiveness. Both COI and BUSCO-based phylogenies recovered a western clade associated with F. tinctoria subsp. gibbosa and an eastern clade associated with F. tinctoria subsp. tinctoria. Molecular, morphological and biogeographic evidence were largely congruent, revealing a geographically structured diversification pattern across the range of the host plant. Diagnoses, descriptions and identification keys for females and males are provided for all species.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.198300

Authors: Mojca Rot, Ivan Žežlina, Marko Devetak, Julija Cocetta Dariž, Agostino Strangi, Giuseppino Sabbatini-Peverieri

Abstract: The global invasion of the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is responsible for high economic losses to agriculture worldwide. As classical biological control is considered the most effective long-term management approach, an intensified research activity has been carried out worldwide aimed at discovering the most effective natural enemies of BMSB. In western Slovenia, monitoring for the presence of stink bug egg parasitoids has been ongoing since 2019. The results from a five-year survey (2021–2025) indicate overall egg parasitism rate ranging from 8.5% to 33.8% over the study period, with an average of 19.6%. The native Anastatus bifasciatus (Geofrey) (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) was the most abundant and widespread parasitoid of BMSB in the region. It accounted for 47% of all parasitoids in the complex and parasitized 9.2% of the host’s eggs. It was followed by non-native Trissolcus mitsukurii (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) which represented 31% of the parasitoid complex and contributed 6.1% to the overall egg parasitism rate. Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) ranked third (21%) despite being recorded only in the final two years of the study, with contribution 4% to total egg parasitism rate. BMSB eggs were also parasitized in low numbers by Trissolcus basalis (Wollaston) and Trissolcus cultratus (Mayr) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). The first detection of T. japonicus in Slovenia in 2024, and its subsequent records in 2025, confirm its establishment in the country and represent an important milestone that may facilitate the future implementation of classical biological control of BMSB.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.186471

Authors: Jana Furtwengler, Doreen Gabriel, Elias Böckmann

Abstract: The digger wasp Pemphredon lethifer nests in pithy twigs. As the species preys exclusively on aphids, it could be a useful biocontrol agent. However, little is known about the wasps’ nesting preferences and their impact on relevant fitness parameters. One important factor in this regard is the optimal pith diameter. We offered twigs of four different pith diameter ranges between 2.5 and 10.5 mm in field trials and under controlled lab conditions to analyse choice and fitness parameters of the nesting females and their offspring. Under field conditions, the number of nests increased with pith diameter, with significantly more nests built in the largest diameter category. In the laboratory, most nests were built in the three largest categories (> 4.5 to 6.5; > 6.5 to 8.5; > 8.5 to 10.5 mm) compared to the smallest (> 2.5 to 4.5 mm). In the field, pith diameter category influenced the sex ratio of offspring, resulting in more females in nests of category > 6.5 to 8.5 mm. Other parameters, such as nest length or time period of nesting, influenced mortality, parasitism and number of offspring. In conclusion, to promote nesting of P. lethifer, nest boxes should be equipped with pith diameters of 6.5 to 8.5 mm and tube length should be considered to reduce mortality. Efficacy of P. lethifer is expected to be the highest early in nesting season.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.199506

Authors: Ju-Hyeong Sohn, Cornelis van Achterberg, Sangjin Kim, Yeongmo Kim, Hyojoong Kim

Abstract: Three new species of the genus Aspilota Foerster, 1863 s. str. (Braconidae: Alysiinae), are described and illustrated: A. angusticarinata sp. nov., A. ocellocarinata sp. nov., and A. laticlypeata sp. nov. Additionally, A. aniva Belokobylskij, 2007 and A. chanka Belokobylskij, 2007 are recorded for the first time from South Korea. We also analyzed the barcode region of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) for those five species. In addition, we provided an identification key for the Aspilota species recorded from Korea.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.186997

Authors: Qin Li, Xiaoyu Li, Huashan Yin, Hui Xiao, Ekaterina V. Tselikh

Abstract: This paper reviews the Palaearctic species of the genus Syntomopus Walker, 1833. A new species, Syntomopus dzhanokmenia sp. nov., is described from Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan and China. All available types are redescribed and illustrated. The species S. crassicornis (Szelényi, 1970) and S. incisus Thomson, 1878 are synonymised under S. thoracicus (Walker, 1833). Syntomopus thoracicus is recorded for the fauna of Uzbekistan for the first time and S. oviceps Thomson, 1878 for the fauna of Kazakhstan. An identification key for females and males of all Palaearctic Syntomopus species is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.174973

Authors: Mostafa Ghafouri Moghaddam, Giuseppe F. Turrisi, Minoo Heidari Latibari, Paul D. N. Hebert, Buntika A. Butcher

Abstract: The Thai species of the genus Pristaulacus Kieffer, 1900 are reviewed, and 17 species are recognized. We describe and illustrate a new species, P. chiangmaiensis Turrisi & Ghafouri Moghaddam, sp. nov., using an integrative taxonomic approach. One species, P. vilhelmseni Turrisi & Smith, 2011, is newly recorded from Thailand. We also provide diagnoses, illustrations, and an illustrated and updated identification key for Thai Pristaulacus species. Additionally, DNA barcoding data are presented for several Thai and other Pristaulacus species viz., P. chiangmaiensis, P. erythrocephalus Cameron, 1905, P. fasciatus (Say, 1829), P. flavicrurus (Bradley, 1901), P. gloriator (Fabricius, 1804), P. intermedius Uchida, 1932, P. cf. rufipes Enderlein, 1912, P. rufitarsis (Cresson, 1864), P. stigmaterus (Cresson, 1864), P. vilhelmseni Turrisi & Smith, 2011, which are included in a phylogenetic analysis for the first time. A comprehensive distribution map of all known Thai Pristaulacus species is also provided. An updated checklist of Pristaulacus species from the Oriental region is tabulated and briefly discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.186686

Authors: Stanislav Korenko, Filip Solar, Helena Rothová, Petr Janšta, Anděla Šimečková, Ľudmila Černecká, Peter Gajdoš, Pavol Purgat, Věra Opatová, Petr Heneberg

Abstract: The parasitoid Darwin wasp Acrodactyla degener (Haliday) (Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae, Ephialtini) is a koinobiont ectoparasitoid of sheet-web-building spiders, for which knowledge of its ecology and distribution remains limited. We compiled our data from 2017 to 2023 across 209 sampling sites in Central and Southern Europe to assess elevational patterns, host specificity, seasonality, and phylogenetic context. Parasitoidism by A. degener did not follow a continuous elevational gradient but was predominant in montane habitats and shaped by orogeographically discrete host assemblages of linyphiid spiders (Linyphiidae). The species relied primarily on Mughiphantes mughi, a montane spider with abundance peaks in autumn and spring. In contrast, Entelecara and Neriene served as secondary or facultative hosts, with substantial regional variation. Seasonal patterns indicate that the highest levels of parasitoidism occurred in autumn and persisted through overwintering hosts, resulting in spring emergence, consistent with a univoltine cycle in montane regions. Bivoltinism may occur at lower elevations and in warmer habitats. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that A. degener is distinct from its cryptic congener Acrodactyla similis, which tends to parasitize lowland hosts. There was no evidence of cryptic host-specialized lineages within A. degener. These findings indicate that A. degener is a flexible but montane-biased parasitoid whose life cycle and host associations are structured by elevation, orography, and seasonal host turnover. This species provides a valuable model for investigating ecological adaptations, host shifts, and the evolution of host use in polysphinctine wasps.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.198145

Authors: H. Charles J. Godfray

Abstract: The European species of Sarops Nixon, 1942, (= Coelinius partim, sensu Wharton and Austin (1991)) are reviewed. The two existing species, S. rea Nixon and S. popovi Tobias, are compared to a new species, Sarops audax Godfray, sp. nov., which is described from specimens collected in Norway and Finland. All species are illustrated, and a key is provided to European species and their separation from non-European taxa discussed. DNA sequences from the CO1 barcode locus were obtained from all three species, and the new taxon was found to be 5% divergent from its closest relative, S. rea. The generic status of Sarops within the Coelinius genus group is discussed, particularly its relationship with Polemochartus Schulz, 1911 with which it shares biological attributes.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.196254

Authors: Paul Geisendörfer, Volker Mauss, Alexander V. Fateryga, Manuela Sann

Abstract: The pollen wasp Celonites osseus is recorded for the first time for Georgia from the Vashlovani National Park. It has been observed visiting exclusively flowers of Heliotropium ellipticum (Boraginaceae) in a dried rocky riverbed of the Mlashe-Tskali River. The females remove pollen from the concealed anthers with their proboscis performing the same unique and stereotypic behavioural pattern as all other members of the Celonites cyprius-group. Flowers of Heliotropium suaveolens were not visited by the C. osseus females, despite being in bloom. A phylogenetic reconstruction of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene indicates monophyly of the C. osseus-complex nested within the C. cyprius-group. Based on the COI phylogeny C. osseus was identified as sister species to C. ivanovi.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.189555

Authors: ​​Marissa H. Chase, Zachary M. Portman, Jessica D. Petersen, Nicole Gerjets, Rachel Kranz, Faith LaBry, Danielle Hudson, Ian G. Lane, Daniel P. Cariveau

Abstract: Many bee nesting and foraging studies are concentrated on common species and floral generalists. Therefore, numerous rare and specialized species lack crucial life history information, which is the case for many species within the genus Colletes. We documented the nesting and foraging biology of C. andrewsi, a rare specialist on Heuchera spp. Nest observations and excavations revealed that C. andrewsi females are philopatric and make shallow (< 7 cm), simple nests. Many females constructed multiple nests in short succession. Our foraging results show that C. andrewsi females are entirely dependent on Heuchera richardsonii in Minnesota, as we never observed pollen or nectar foraging on other flowering species. Additionally, we found that females can forage long distances (> 300 m; mean = 143 m) and sometimes exhibit high patch fidelity. Mating occurred during foraging bouts at H. richardsonii flowers and likely throughout their adult lifespan. Altogether, more population-level studies on solitary and rare bee species, such as those investigating life history, are needed to aid conservation efforts.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.184465

Authors: Amber Bass, Andrew M. R. Bennett, Tamara Spasojevic, Marla Schwarzfeld

Abstract: The world species of Piogaster Perkins are revised including the description of a new species: Piogaster variegata Bass, Bennett & Schwarzfeld, sp. nov. from Alberta, Canada. The new species is described and the seven previously known species are redescribed, with an illustrated key to all eight world species. Species relationships are examined using molecular data, including DNA barcodes and ultra-conserved elements (UCEs). Piogaster pilosator caucasica Kasparyan, syn. nov. is newly synonymized under Piogaster pilosator (Aubert). Piogaster pilosator is newly recorded from Germany and Norway and a lectotype is hereby designated. Piogaster albina Perkins is newly recorded from Hungary and Sweden. We also include new generic records of Piogaster from Italy and new generic provincial records from British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. We report a new host genus for Piogaster, bringing the total host count to three genera of Salticidae. For the first time, a male Piogaster specimen is unequivocally associated with a female in P. daisetsuzana Kusigemati. Associating European and North American males with females based on morphology alone remains problematic.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.179503

Authors: Thomas J. Wood

Abstract: The southern Balkans (here comprising the countries of Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Greece including the Greek islands) are known for their large bee faunas due to their mixture of Mediterranean, sub-Mediterranean, temperate, and montane habitats. The bee genus Andrena is particularly species-rich in this region, but has lacked a comprehensive modern revision. Here the fauna is comprehensively revised, producing a total of 273 species, with national totals of 243 (Greece), 186 (Bulgaria), 153 (North Macedonia), and 116 (Albania). A full identification key is presented to stimulate further work. The following taxonomic changes are necessary after genetic investigation and inspection of type material: Andrena (Graecandrena) repressa Warncke, 1975, stat. nov.; Andrena (Limbandrena) toelgiana Friese, 1921, sp. resurr.; Andrena (Holandrena) decipiens Schenck, 1861 = Andrena (Holandrena) flavilabris Schenck, 1874, syn. nov., Andrena (Holandrena) forsterella Osytshnjuk, 1978 = Andrena (Holandrena) wilhelmi Schuberth, 1995, syn. nov.; Andrena (Lepidandrena) caprimulga Warncke, 1975 = Andrena (Lepidandrena) statusa Gusenleitner, 1998, syn. nov.; Andrena (Melandrena) creticola stat. rev.; Andrena (Notandrena) meridionalis Dalla Torre & Friese, 1895, sp. resurr. = A. (Notandrena) langadensis Warncke, 1965, syn. nov.; Andrena (Notandrena) albipila Warncke, 1967, stat. nov.; Andrena (Notandrena) clanga Warncke, 1965, stat. nov.; Andrena (Notandrena) oblonga Warncke, 1967, stat. nov.; Andrena (Ulandrena) subglobosa Dours, 1873, sp. resurr. = A. (Ulandrena) kriechbaumeri Schmiedeknecht, 1883, syn. nov.; and Andrena (Campylogaster) erberi Morawitz, 1871 = Andrena kozarovi Nedialkov, 1914, syn. nov. Six new species are described: Andrena (Cryptandrena) testudo sp. nov. (Greece: Crete), Andrena (Euandrena) bulgarica sp. nov. (Bulgaria and Greece), Andrena (Euandrena) obscuricrus sp. nov. (Greece: Crete), Andrena (Graecandrena) cretica sp. nov. (Greece: Crete), Andrena (Lepidandrena) haladai sp. nov. (Greece), and Andrena (incertae sedis) lasithi sp. nov. (Greece: Crete). Finally, Leucandrena Haeckel, 1872, a name for a group of sponges, is considered to be a nomen oblitum and Andrena Subgenus Leucandrena Hedicke, 1933 is considered to be a nomen protectum. The final regional species total includes 28 endemic species (10.3%), giving the southern Balkans a comparable but slightly lower endemism rate than the Iberian Peninsula (15.7%) and Morocco (12.2%), but with a meaningfully higher species density per unit area, highlighting the southern Balkans as a global hotspot for the genus Andrena.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.186607

Authors: Jaehee Kim, Jeong-ok Ha, Hong-gu Kang, Chang-Jun Kim, Moon Bo Choi

Abstract: Climate change and expanding international trade are accelerating biological invasions, intensifying the need to explore the mechanisms underlying the incorporation of invasive species into native food webs. Importantly, the invasive yellow-legged hornet, Vespa velutina (Lepeletier, 1836), has rapidly expanded across Asia and Europe and continues to generate ecological and economic impacts, particularly in apiculture. However, research on V. velutina predators remains largely fragmented and consists primarily of region-specific or single-species studies. Here, we conducted a systematic review of the confirmed predators of V. velutina worldwide and reported newly confirmed predation cases in South Korea. Major bibliographic databases were screened for records of direct evidence of predation. In South Korea (2023–2025), we combined field observations with fecal analyses, winter nest monitoring, and predation verification using documentary footage and biodiversity platform records. A total of 17 predator taxa across four classes, seven orders, and 11 families were identified. Predation was categorized into three ecological modes: opportunistic individual predation on adults outside the nests, colony-level predation involving nest destruction and brood removal, and winter nest intrusion, targeting weakened post-season nests. A badger (Meles leucurus) was confirmed as a mammalian predator based on fecal analyses. In addition, documentary footage revealed that a Crested honey buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus) attacked nests and consumed the exposed broods. During winter, woodpeckers (Picidae) frequently initiated nest perforation. Similarly, brown-eared bulbuls (Hypsipetes amaurotis) exhibited envelope breaking and brood consumption in rural and urban settings. Our review showed that V. velutina is embedded in diverse trophic guilds and that predatory effects are likely local and context-dependent. Overall, this review provides an updated global inventory of confirmed predators, clarifies predation modes, and provides evidence-based implications for ecosystem management and integrated control strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.187915

Authors: Thuong Thi Vu, Anh Duc Nguyen, Lien Thi Phuong Nguyen

Abstract: Based on specimens deposited in the Institute of Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (IB; Hanoi, Vietnam), we provide taxonomic notes on the solitary wasp genus Symmorphus Wesmael, 1836 (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) from Vietnam. The subgenus Parasymmorphus Cumming & van der Vecht, 1986 is recorded from Vietnam for the first time, represented by Symmorphus (Parasymmorphus) parvilineatus (Cameron, 1904), which is also a new country record. Two additional species, S. (Symmorphus) lamriensis Gusenleitner, 2010 and S. (Symmorphus) sichuanensis Lee, 1981, are newly recorded from Vietnam. The female of S. laoticus Gusenleitner, 2010 is described for the first time based on Vietnamese material. Distributional data and photographs are provided for the treated taxa. In addition, the male genitalia of three species are described and illustrated in detail for the first time, improving species recognition and facilitating future identification work on the Vietnamese Symmorphus fauna.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.158519

Authors: Ioan Tăușan, Maria Denisa Cocîrlea, Simona Oancea

Abstract: Solidago canadensis (Canadian goldenrod) is a widespread invasive plant species that has been shown to cause strong effects on abundance, diversity and species composition of various ground-dwelling invertebrates. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of invasion by S. canadensis on the ant communities in meadows with different exposure (southern and northern) in centre Romania. Ant sampling was carried out on the Târnavelor plateau in six paired sites (invaded and non-invaded areas, total N = 12) using Barber pitfall traps. Our results showed that ant richness and abundance were not affected by the presence of S. canadensis, while ant abundance was marginally higher in sites with northern exposure (p=0.06). Moreover, the composition of ant communities was also affected by the exposure of the sites, whilst the effect of invasion itself was not significant. In summary, our study suggests rather a very limited effect of the spread of the Canadian goldenrod on the ant communities in Central Romania meadows, while local microclimates may play a higher role. This contrasts with other studies that showed negative effects of this plant species on the ant and other Hymenoptera communities in other regions.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.178410

Authors: Tobias Salden, István Mikó, Arnstein Staverløkk, Marina Moser, Cristina Vasilița, Thomas van de Kamp, Jonathan Vogel, Lars Podsiadlowski, Nils Hein, George Japoshvili, Ralph S. Peters

Abstract: Aphanogmus fumipennis Thomson, 1858 is one of the most frequently recorded ceraphronid parasitoid wasp species, considered to have a wide geographic distribution, numerous synonyms, and a broad host spectrum. 257 specimens with a posterior mesosomal comb, a character traditionally associated with A. fumipennis, from eight Western Palaearctic countries were examined using an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological study with focus on male genitalia and analyses of DNA barcode sequences. Among those specimens, we detected 14 new species, which are all classified in a newly diagnosed A. fumipennis species group and made accessible through an identification key: Aphanogmus bispinatus Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. crispy Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. digitangulus Salden, Staverløkk, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. hafti Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. hamatogonus Salden, Staverløkk, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. harpagodalis Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. karlazani Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. kintrishi Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. latiharpus Salden & Peters, sp. nov., A. tkheliharpus Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. trigoharpus Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. vashlovani Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. ventricoharpus Salden, Staverløkk, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov., A. zefranki Salden, Mikó & Peters, sp. nov. At least nine additional species were delimited by sequence data only, but not formally described, indicating a minimum of 23 species in the A. fumipennis species group in the Western Palaearctic. Finally, we provide a detailed genus diagnosis for Aphanogmus and discuss the status of the nominal species A. fumipennis Thomson, 1858 as a species of uncertain identity. This study represents the first taxonomic treatment in 66 years to describe more than a single Palaearctic Aphanogmus species. It also provides the first Ceraphronoidea species descriptions from Georgia, where species richness has almost increased fivefold, and nearly doubles the number of ceraphronid species known from Germany. This demonstrates that even in historically well studied regions such as the Western Palaearctic, many parasitoid wasp groups, and Ceraphronoidea in particular, are extremely understudied. Discovering these known unknowns paves the way for further research on ecology, evolution, application and conservation of Ceraphronoidea.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.166509

Authors: Martim Baptista, Roberto A. Keller, Matthew T. Hamer, Benoit Guénard, Francisco Hita Garcia

Abstract: Ishakidris Bolton, 1984 is a monotypic ant genus, previously known only from a solitary specimen collected in Sarawak, Borneo. Unusual morphology of the genus has kept scientists intrigued since its description. Here we report on the discovery of Ishakidris hastifera sp. nov. from Peninsular Malaysia that provides important new insights into the taxonomy of this enigmatic genus and sheds light on its previously unknown diversity and distribution. We present a detailed account of the worker’s diagnostic features, aided by a micro-CT–based 3D model of the holotype, together with a cybertype dataset for the new species and an identification key for the genus. In addition, a 3D model of non-type material is made available for the already established species, Ishakidris ascitaspis Bolton 1984, using additional workers newly collected in Sabah, Borneo. Our analysis of both species’ internal structures, enabled by the 3D models, revealed a shelf-like invagination of the propodeum into the mesosomal cavity – an unprecedented character in ants. Using the morphological data, we discuss the support for the current systematic placement of the genus in Myrmicinae subfamily, or alternative hypothesis for Agroecomyrmecinae, that calls for molecular data to be yet tested.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.185167

Authors: Alejandro Zaldívar-Riverón, Sofía R. Fernández-Flores, Rubén Castañeda-Osorio, Jaime Solis-de la Rosa, Scott P. Egan, Valeria B. Salinas-Ramos, Y. Miles Zhang

Abstract: Belonocnema Mayr (Cynipidae, Cynipini) is an oak gall wasp genus currently known by three described species distributed in the southern and southeastern U.S. and northern Mexico, all associated with live oaks of the Quercus section Virentes. Here, we conducted an integrative systematic study of a new species of Belonocnema, B. mesoamericana Zhang, Zaldívar-Riverón & Fernández-Flores, sp. nov., reared from galls of the live oak Quercus oleoides Schltdl. in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. We morphologically described the sexual and asexual generations of the new species and their galls, molecularly characterized it based on the DNA barcoding locus, reconstructed its phylogenetic affinities using multilocus data from Ultraconserved Elements, and identified its associated hymenopteran community. The new species is morphologically similar to its sister species, B. kinseyi Weld, though it can be distinguished by color and sculpture features, as well as by the sexual generation forming velvety rootlet galls. Since Q. oleoides is widely distributed across Mesoamerica, we expect the new species to have a broader distribution. A considerably high species richness and phylogenetic diversity of the hymenopteran community associated with the galls were recovered, with 43 morphospecies belonging to 15 genera and 13 families, of which 41 were found in the asexual generation and only three in the sexual generation. This study increases the systematic knowledge of a poorly known Cynipini genus and highlights the extraordinary, yet neglected, insect diversity associated with galls, especially in the Neotropics.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.183051

Authors: Áron Domonkos Bihaly, Dávid L. Stephenson, Zsolt Józan, László Somay, András Báldi, Anikó Kovács-Hostyánszki, Miklós Sárospataki, Edina Török

Abstract: Hymenoptera are among the most important members of temperate ecosystems, both for their contribution to ecosystem services and their role in overall ecosystem functioning. While they have received considerable research attention due to their ecological significance and recent declines, substantial knowledge gaps remain regarding their ecology, phenology, and population trajectories. Trap nests are a popular sampling tool for cavity-nesting Hymenoptera, offering excellent potential to fill these knowledge gaps by simultaneously providing data on species-abundance and key ecological, phenological, and behavioural processes. Trap nests also serve as an excellent tool for monitoring environmental change, habitat restoration efforts, and other interventions. However, their use has not yet been standardised, limiting data sharing and comparability between studies. Here, we introduce the first step-by-step protocol for producing and implementing trap nests, available in its entirety via protocols.io. With this protocol and the provided supplementary resources, we aim to promote the use of trap nests and facilitate the standardisation of cavity-nesting Hymenoptera data collection, which is essential for advancing research and developing conservation measures effectively.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.172251

Authors: Çiğdem Özenirler, Ece Kamalak, Abdullah Derda Alkazak, Burcu Daşer Özgişi, Emre Çilden, Selma Ülgentürk, Ahmet Murat Aytekin

Abstract: Honeydew is a sugary excretion produced by sap-feeding hemipterans, such as scale insects and aphids. It has been regarded predominantly as a food resource for predators and omnivores insects. Its potential role as a food source for pollinators, particularly bumble bees, remains underexplored. This study investigates the foraging of Bombus terrestris (L.) on honeydew secreted by Sphaerolecanium prunastri on Prunus cerasifera in a semi-natural environment. Field observations revealed that B. terrestris workers actively forage on honeydew. These findings indicate that B. terrestris is capable of utilizing honeydew as an alternative foraging resource. Additionally, our results suggest species-specific preferences for honeydew among bumble bee species, underscoring the complexity of plant-insect interactions. This is the first report of interaction between B. terrestris and S. prunastri, including the sugar composition of the honeydew and the associated foraging behavior. Understanding how pollinators adapt to alternative food sources like honeydew is essential for predicting their ecological resilience and guiding effective conservation strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.175957

Authors: Si-Xun Ge, Li-Li Ren, Jiang-Li Tan

Abstract: The genus †Tichostephanus comprises unique apocritan hymenopterans characterized by distinct fore wing venation, featuring a very large submarginal cell, and a “bottle brush”-like sensilla on the ovipositor sheath. Recently, the genus has been transferred from Stephanidae to Gasteruptiidae (Evanioidea). In this study, two new species, †Tichostephanus qinshubao sp. nov. and †Tichostephanus yuchijingde sp. nov., are described and illustrated based on specimens from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The new species are distinguished from previously described taxa by the length-to-width ratio of the pterostigma; the degree of curvature of vein 1Cu; the shape of the first subdiscal cell; and the presence or absence of transverse striae on the middle part of the pronotum. A key to all five known species of the genus is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.99.167713

Authors: Hsuan-Pu Chen, Kazuhiko Konishi, Shiuh-Feng Shiao

Abstract: An integrated taxonomic approach combining morphology and COI barcode is applied to the subgenus Paropheltes Cameron of the nocturnal Darwin wasp genus Netelia Gray from Taiwan. This subgenus is recorded from Taiwan for the first time based on four previously described species (N. (Paro.) fulginosa Konishi, 1996, N. (Paro.) guptai Kaur & Jonathan, 1979, N. (Paro.) savchenkoi Tolkanitz, 1981, and N. (Paro.) yui Konishi, 2000) and a new species (N. (Paro.) dalupalringi Chen, Konishi & Shiao, sp. nov.). The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a newly proposed key to the Taiwanese species and by male genitalia characters, including the rounded blunt apex of the gonostyle, semi-circular pad projected dorso-basally, parallel-sided brace narrowed apically, as well as the presence of a submarginal spine on the gonostyle. Improved methods for observation of male genitalia, particularly to enhance the visibility of the pad, a key membranous diagnostic feature, are proposed, and their implications are discussed. DNA-based species delimitation is conducted for three species with available DNA barcodes. Additionally, a COI-based phylogeny is reconstructed to assess the monophyly of this subgenus, confirming Paropheltes as a polyphyletic group.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.150721

Authors: Violet Sparks, Ilgoo Kang, Morgan Carrere, Hannah Broadley, Rodrigo Diaz

Abstract: Roseau cane scale, Nipponaclerda biwakoensis (Hemiptera: Aclerdidae) is an invasive species negatively impacting Phragmites australis (Cyperales: Poaceae) stands within the Mississippi River Delta. Previous research generated a PCR multiplex capable of identifying the three species of parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) that attack the scale in its invasive range. The appearance of a fourth species, Aprostocetus sp. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), within Louisiana in 2022 necessitated updating the multiplex with primers specific to the new species. The newly updated multiplex can identify the presence of all four parasitoid species within their host. DNA was extracted from the whole bodies of scales collected at different life stages and three different dates during the growing season and PCR performed with the new multiplex. Our findings show each species within the complex oviposits within a specific window of nymphal development which might help explain how successful multiparasitism frequently occurs in this system. The frequency of multiparasitism and relative abundance of each parasitoid species was consistent across the three sampling dates, except Astymachus lasallei (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), which was found in higher abundance during the end of the growing season.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.178606

Authors: Chengfang Li, Qiang Li, Li Ma

Abstract: Nitela carinifrons Li, Li & Ma, 2025 a junior homonym of N. carinifrons Menke, 1968, is replaced with Nitela scabrirugata Li, Li & Ma, nom. nov.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.155267

Authors: James M. Carpenter

Abstract: Taxonomic and distributional notes are given for the eumenine genus Paralastor. New synonymy includes Paralastor albifrons (Fabricius) = Paralastor habilis Perkins; Paralastor brunneus (de Saussure) = Paralastor multicolor Perkins; Paralastor maculiventris (de Saussure) = Paralastor elegans Perkins.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.169802

Authors: Vasilisa G. Chemyreva, Seonwoo Yoon, Deok-Seo Ku

Abstract: All known species of the diapriid genus Lepidopria Kieffer, 1911 are revised, keyed and illustrated. A new species, L. bicarinata Chemyreva & Ku, sp. nov. is described from South Korea. The diagnosis of the genus Lepidopria, as well as that of all described species, has been clarified. New data on the distribution of the species L. masneri Notton, 1994 and L. pedestris Kieffer, 1911 are provided. The association of L. masneri with the nests of Solenopsis japonica Wheeler, 1928 is reported and the biology of Lepidopria species is discussed. Taxonomic status of the mysterious L. aberrans Brues, 1916 is considered and a new combination, Bruesopria aberrans (Brues), comb. nov., suggested.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.170415

Authors: Albena Lapeva-Gjonova, Ilia Gjonov, Rumyana Kostova, David Mifsud

Abstract: This study presents vibroacoustic recordings of the three Messor species in the Maltese archipelago, M. capitatus (Latreille, 1798), M. bouvieri Bondroit, 1918, and M. ibericus Santschi, 1925, and their signal characteristics were analysed. The observed patterns are consistent with the hypothesis that acoustic traits in Messor ants are subject to species-specific constraints. To gain further insight into the sound parameters of M. ibericus, geographically isolated populations from Malta, Gozo, Sicily, Crete, and Bulgaria were compared, revealing variation and significant differences at the population level. Additionally, the study provides new occurrence data for M. ibericus (queens and workers), which was previously reported as M. structor (Latreille, 1798) for Malta, along with information on its habitat preferences and activity.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.167764

Authors: Kseniia T. Abu Diiak, Alexey A. Polilov

Abstract: Insects depend on complex sensory systems to detect food sources, locate mates, and navigate in the environment. In the smallest insects, miniaturization imposes major constraints on anatomy and physiology, but it remains poorly understood how this affects the structure and function of sensory systems, such as the sensilla on the mouthparts. The specific problem addressed in this study is how extreme miniaturization influences the diversity, distribution, and structural complexity of mouthpart sensilla in the minute parasitoid wasp Megaphragma viggianii Fusu, Polaszek & Polilov. Using scanning and volumetric electron microscopy, we show that despite its minute body length of 0.2–0.3 mm, M. viggianii possesses a set of 70 sensilla on its mouthparts, including four major types (chaetoid, basiconic, coeloconic, and campaniform). These wasps display no noticeable sexual dimorphism in the structure and distribution of their mouthpart sensilla, and the set of sensilla is generally identical in different individuals. Compared to larger Hymenoptera, M. viggianii exhibits a reduced number of sensilla, but maintains the same types of sensilla and their similar position, suggesting stable developmental and functional traits. These findings confirm that miniaturization does not reduce the diversity of the sensilla, but instead drives simplification at the structural level, while preserving their functional roles. These insights not only advance our understanding of insect sensory biology but also contribute to elucidating broader questions of evolutionary morphology and functional scaling of biological systems.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.165915

Authors: Carlos M. Herrera, Conchita Alonso, Javier Valverde, Alejandro Núñez, Thomas J. Wood

Abstract: Evolutionary and ecological factors underlying the extensive, fast diversification of the species-rich bee genus Andrena (Andrenidae Latreille, 1802) are of general interest and require elucidation. Progress in evolutionary and ecological understanding of hyperdiverse Andrena assemblages, however, has been hindered in parts of the world where the genus reaches its highest species richness. The lack of well-established taxonomic resources has precluded studies on resource use and patterns of reciprocal relationships with plants which could potentially shed light on drivers of Andrena diversification. This paper presents an analysis of community-wide relationships between plants and Andrena bees in a western Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot (Cazorla mountain range, southeastern Spain). By combining information on pollinator composition of the regional community of entomophilous plants (292 species) with a state-of-the-art taxonomic treatment of the regional assemblage of Andrena (89 species), we assess here the distribution across the plant phylogeny of floral resources utilized by Andrena; the quantitative patterns of mutual dependence between species of plants and Andrena; and the completeness of our regional sampling of Andrena species. Three new species of Andrena from the study region, which were discovered in the course of the field study, are also described and illustrated: A. officinalis Wood, sp. nov., A. rostro Wood, sp. nov., and A. cazorlae Wood, sp. nov.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.172639

Authors: Si-Zhu Long, Bin Chen, Ting-Jing Li

Abstract: In this paper, one new species, namely Megaodynerus flavogaster Long, Chen & Li, sp. nov. from Anhui (China) is described and illustrated, in detail. The male of this genus is firstly described, with its high-resolution morphological images. In addition, an updated key to all known species and a distribution map of these species are given.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.166350

Authors: Kit S. Prendergast, Joshua W. Campbell

Abstract: A new species Megachile (Hackeriapis) lucifer (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) is described from both sexes. Megachile lucifer sp. nov. is of conservation importance, as it is a visitor to the range-restricted, Critically Endangered flowering plant species Marianthus aquilonaris (Pittosporaceae). This new Megachile has yet to be collected outside the region in which this rare plant occurs. A diagnostic feature of Megachile lucifer is the presence of a large pair of outward and upwardly facing, convex horns on each side of the clypeus, which is deeply recessed and features a medial ridge. These horns are found only in the female, unlike most sex-specific weaponry or ornamentation in animals. Clypeal modifications occur in a number of female megachilids which may be related to nest construction, whilst other clypeal horns are found in Hackeriapis females. The description of this new species provides the opportunity for future research into their function, and evolution among this subgenus. DNA barcoding with the CO1 gene confirmed the sexes belonged to the same species and it did not match any previously barcoded species. The species was collected only during mass-flowering of another host, Eucalyptus livida (Myrtaceae). The limited known distribution, and short activity season of this species, along with being associated with a Critically Endangered plant species in a region subjected to mining, suggested it may be a species of conservation concern.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.157383

Authors: Ernesto Bonadies, William T. Wcislo, Hermógenes Fernández-Marín

Abstract: Social insects employ diverse strategies, including individual and collective sanitary care as well as colony-level hygiene, to prevent, manage and control pathogen transmission. The immune system constitutes a key component of the individual defensive repertoire, but its activation entails trade-offs with other life history traits due to its high metabolic cost. In this study, we investigated how different immune strategies interact in social insects. We challenged workers of the leaf-cutting ant Atta cephalotes with an entomopathogen to compare hygienic behavior and survival rates in the presence and absence of a previously activated immune encapsulation response. Entomopathogenic-challenged ants: (a) increased the production of infrabuccal pellets, formed by collecting detritus and fungal conidia and mixing them with antimicrobial compounds as a prophylactic behavior to avoid conidia germination; and (b) exhibited a reduced encapsulation response. Although the encapsulation response of insects is typically initiated within a few hours after infection, in our experiment neither pellet production nor encapsulation response depended on the timing of the prior immune challenge. Moreover, simultaneous activation of the immune system with both a foreign body (nylon implant) and entomopathogenic fungal conidia significantly reduced survival rates. Our findings suggest that when the ant immune system is chronically challenged to encapsulate a foreign body, its defensive capacity against a fungal pathogen is weakened.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.155469

Authors: Yao Deng, Li Ma, Qiang Li

Abstract: Three new species of the genus Psen Latreille, 1796 (Pemphredoninae: Psenini) from China are described: P. scabristriatus Deng & Ma, sp. nov., P. spinitarsalis Deng & Ma, sp. nov. and P. rhyssothoracicus Deng & Ma, sp. nov. In addition, P. brinchangensis van Lith, 1965 is recorded from China and the male is described for the first time. An updated key to known and new species and a distribution map of Chinese Psen Latreille are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.165583

Authors: Jonathan Vogel, Jakob Martin, Mattias Forshage, Tobias Salden, Arnstein Staverløkk, Fons Verheyde, Göran Nordlander, Annette Herz, Ralph S. Peters

Abstract: The genus Leptopilina comprises species of parasitoid wasps that primarily attack early instar larvae of drosophilid species, some of which are well-known agricultural or nuisance pests. To unravel host-parasitoid interactions and to use parasitoids effectively in biological control, the correct taxonomic assignment is of crucial importance. In the course of the German Barcode of Life III: Dark Taxa (GBOL III: Dark Taxa) project, we assembled specimens of all seven species of Leptopilina of the Western Palearctic. Using CO1 barcode sequence analyses and morphological examination allows us to evaluate species limits in an integrative approach, to provide extended species diagnoses as well as an updated key to the species of the Western Palearctic. This work also summarizes current knowledge on Western Palearctic Leptopilina species, including their distribution, population parameters, habitats, flight periods, and hosts. We provide the first country records of three Leptopilina species for Belgium, including the non-native L. japonica, propose two species level synonymies and move one Western Palearctic species out of Leptopilina. Finally, to facilitate taxonomic research on Leptopilina in lesser-known regions, we provide a list of non-Western Palearctic species, including the moving of 13 species into Leptopilina. These changes also result in two new generic synonymies. In conclusion, Western Palearctic Leptopilina can be clearly diagnosed both morphologically and molecularly. Comparable ease of identification and cultivation, as well as the economic interest in potent biological control agents against drosophilid pests make them ideal organisms for basic and applied research.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.167841

Authors: Meng-Meng Liu, Ze-Jian Li, Mei-Cai Wei

Abstract: Platycampus Schiödte, 1839 is distributed in Europe and East Asia, with ten described species. A new species, P. rufitegularis sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Zhejiang Province, China, representing the third Platycampus species recorded in China. Diagnostic illustrations of morphological characters for all three Chinese species and a key to the world species of Platycampus are provided. The partial mitochondrial genome of P. rufitegularis (16,103 bp; GenBank: PX129881) was assembled into 36 genes, including: 13 protein-coding genes, 21 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs; trnD and the control region (CR) are missing from the assembly. The A+T content is 80.1%. Phylogenetic analyses resolved P. rufitegularis as sister to P. amurensis Zinovjev, 1986, and this clade forms a supported lineage within the monophyletic genus Platycampus.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.172249

Authors: Chengfang Li, Qiang Li, Li Ma

Abstract: This paper presents a systematic study on the Chinese species of the genus Nitela. Six new species from Yunnan, Hainan, and Guangdong Provinces are described: Nitela carinifrons, Nitela noncrenulata, Nitela punctidorsalis, Nitela transcarinata, Nitela tumidiscuta, and Nitela vecarinata. Diagnostic characters distinguishing these species from their congeners are provided. Additionally, three species are newly recorded from China: Nitela rugosa Williams, 1928, Nitela williamsi Menke, 1968 and Nitela domestica (Williams, 1928). A key to the Oriental species of the genus Nitela is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.163217

Authors: Cory S. Sheffield, Jennifer M. Heron, Paul H. Williams

Abstract: The name Bombus flavifrons has been applied to two different bumble bee species in North America, one described by Ezra Cresson in 1863, the other by Frederick Smith in 1866. Bombus flavifrons Cresson, 1863 is currently considered the valid name for a common and widespread species in western North America, while B. flavifrons Smith, 1866 is considered a junior homonym of B. flavifrons Cresson, and thus not available. Consequently, B. columbicus Dalla Torre, 1890 was offered as a replacement name for B. flavifrons Smith. Smith’s taxon was described from a now-lost type specimen taken on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada but has been considered a junior synonym of B. vosnesenskii Radoszkowski, 1862 since 1888. Prior to 2012 no other records of B. vosnesenskii were known from Vancouver Island, and it was considered very rare in Canada up until the early 2000s, known only from a few specimens from the southcentral mainland of British Columbia adjacent to the United States border. Bombus caliginosus (Frison, 1927) was not recorded in the literature from Canada until 2014 and is known only from five specimens collected in the 1970s at Victoria, Vancouver Island. Bombus caliginosus is distinguishable from B. vosnesenskii with some difficulty. Due to the morphological similarity of B. vosnesenskii and B. caliginosus, and their historical scarcity and disjunct distributions in Canada, we propose that B. flavifrons Smith is conspecific with B. caliginosus, a species that was not described until almost 40 years after the synonymy of B. flavifrons Smith under B. vosnesenskii. As the type specimen of Smith’s taxon is seemingly lost, we also designate a neotype of B. flavifrons Smith from Vancouver Island to support the proposed nomenclature. Though Bombus columbicus is here considered a senior synonym of B. caliginosus syn. nov., under Article 23.9.1 of the ICZN Code, we designate the name nomen oblitum to maintain the prevailing use of B. caliginosus for this taxon.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.163947

Authors: Oleksandr Varga, Filippo Di Giovanni

Abstract: In the first of a series of papers revising the poorly-studied Darwin wasp genus Orthocentrus Gravenhorst, 1829, in the Western Palaearctic, here we revise species with yellow or ivory marks on the vertex. Several new country records are provided: O. bilineator Aubert, 1959 and O. castellanus Ceballos, 1963 from Italy; O. hirsutor Aubert, 1969 from Italy, Sweden and Ukraine; and O. orbitator Aubert, 1963 from Israel, Italy, Turkey, and Ukraine. One species, O. mirabilis Varga & Di Giovanni, sp. nov., is described as new from Belgium, Italy, Poland, Sweden, and Ukraine. An identification key, diagnoses and illustrations to all the studied species are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.157523

Authors: Andrei E. Humala, Simon van Noort

Abstract: The new species Eusterinx dzanga Humala & van Noort, sp. nov. from Central African Republic, Eusterinx kirkwoodi Humala & van Noort, sp. nov. and Eusterinx gamka van Noort & Humala, sp. nov. from South Africa, and Eusterinx kibale van Noort & Humala, sp. nov. from Uganda belonging to the subgenus Ischyracis are described and illustrated. An illustrated identification key to the known Afrotropical Eusterinx species is provided. Online Lucid identification keys and images of all the species treated herein are available at: http://www.waspweb.org.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.161702

Authors: Matteo Annessi, Alessandra Riccieri, Andrea Di Giulio

Abstract: In this paper, a new species belonging to the Andrena pilipes/nigrospina complex, Andrena culucciae sp. nov., is described and illustrated from northern Sardinia (Italy). The species is distinguished by significant morphological characters, including the structure of the genital capsule and the translucent marginal zones of the tergites in males, as well as the coloration patterns of setae in females. These characters are discussed in detail and compared with those of closely related species. Morphological evidence is complemented by COI barcode data, which supports the distinctiveness of the new taxon, although they do not fully resolve the phylogenetic relationships within the A. pilipes/nigrospina complex. Both Neighbor-Joining and Maximum Likelihood trees consistently place A. culucciae sp. nov. in a well-supported monophyletic clade. The COI data also reveal p-distance values between A. culucciae sp. nov. and both A. nigrospina Thomson, 1872 and A. pilipes Fabricius, 1781 that are higher than those observed between A. nigrospina and A. pilipes themselves, and show distinct haplotypes for all three taxa. Furthermore, we argue that the Sardinian subspecies Andrena pilipes iliensis Alfken, 1938 is not valid, as it lacks significant morphological and molecular divergence from A. pilipes s.s. An identification key for the Andrena pilipes/nigrospina complex is provided. Ecological data on A. culucciae sp. nov. are also presented, suggesting a possible association with coastal dune habitats. This highlights important conservation implications, given the ecological vulnerability of these environments in the Mediterranean region.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.162472

Authors: Sheng-Shan Lu, Yi-Hua Hu, Ming-Tang Shiao, I-Hsin Sung

Abstract: We investigated the usurpation behavior of the hornet Vespa basalis Smith in nests of V. velutina Lepeletier. We collected 47 nests of the two species in Taiwan in their establishment and growth stages. Of these, 29 were mixed-species nests, and in at least 16 V. velutina was replaced by V. basalis. While most nests were initiated by V. velutina, V. basalis coexisted with it during the establishment stage, leading to intense conflict between the two. The multiplex PCR method gave evidence of the usurper’s eggs and larvae in the mixed-species nest. Over time, the number of adults and brood in usurped V. velutina nests decreased, while those of V. basalis increased, demonstrating behavior in V. basalis akin to facultative social parasitism. This study provides further evidence of nest usurpation in the genus Vespa, along with description of complex interactions among these hornets, their natural enemies, prey, and humans in Taiwan.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.158760

Authors: A. P. Ranjith, Gavin R. Broad, Bernardo F. Santos, Buntika A. Butcher

Abstract: The ichneumonine genus Heinrichiellus Tereshkin is reported for the first time from the Oriental region. Three new species (Heinrichiellus natgeo Ranjith & Broad, sp. nov., Heinrichiellus vedani Ranjith, sp. nov. from India and Heinrichiellus brevispinus Ranjith & Broad, sp. nov. from Thailand) are described. A revised generic diagnosis and an identification key to the known species are provided. Additionally, the systematic placement of the genus within the subfamily Ichneumoninae is proposed for the first time based on data from four genes.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.154760

Authors: A. P. Ranjith, Santosh C. Kedar

Abstract: The campoplegine genus Lemophagus is reported for the first time from India, along with the description of a new species, L. larvivorus sp. nov. The specimens were reared as larval parasitoids of the chrysomelid beetle Crioceris nigroornata. The new species is compared with all extant species, and its validity is further supported by molecular data. A concatenated maximum likelihood tree of COI+28S gene fragments is presented including species with available molecular data.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.163211

Authors: Sarah C. von Gries, Jessica Awad, Elijah J. Talamas, Anthony J. McMechan, Robert L. Koch, Amelia R. I. Lindsey

Abstract: Platygastridae (Hymenoptera) is known as a ‘dark taxon’ as it is highly diverse and understudied. Within Platygastridae, one of the largest genera is Synopeas Förster, species of which parasitize Cecidomyiidae (Diptera). This study identifies a new host association between these two families, with Synopeas ruficoxum Buhl as the second reported parasitoid of soybean gall midge, Resseliella maxima Gagné. Parasitoids were reared from soybean stems infested with R. maxima collected in Nebraska, USA. Furthermore, PCR assays confirmed that R. maxima larvae are parasitized by S. ruficoxum in the field. All S. ruficoxum specimens were female, suggesting that this may be an asexually reproducing population. We found that some, but not all, S. ruficoxum were infected with a bacterium, Wolbachia, known to mediate asexual reproduction in other insects, suggesting other factors may be responsible for the all-female population. Publicly available barcoding data allowed us to determine that S. ruficoxum is also present in Eastern Canada, which is beyond the known geographic range of R. maxima. This suggests that S. ruficoxum has other hosts or that the geographic range of R. maxima is broader than currently documented. A redescription and diagnostic data for S. ruficoxum are provided, advancing the ability to use this parasitoid for biological control of R. maxima.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.155756

Authors: Ting-Ting Du, Hai-Xia Lu, Ming-Qiang Wang, Yi Li, Xiao-Yu Shi, Michael Orr, Jie Li, Arong Luo, Alexandra-Maria Klein, Chao-Dong Zhu, Peng-Fei Guo

Abstract: While nest architecture of social wasps has been extensively studied, the structural adaptations of solitary Eumeninae remain poorly understood, despite their remarkable nesting biology. We set up trap nests for Anterhynchium. flavomarginatum in a subtropical forest in southwestern China. We aimed to investigate the effects on the nesting success of intercalary cells, diameter and vestibular length of nests. Nesting success increased significantly with the number of intercalary cells. Our results indicate that nesting success in nests with a diameter of 6–8 mm was significantly higher than that in nests with a diameter of 14–16 mm, but not significantly higher than that in nests with a diameter greater than 16 mm. Nesting success in nests with a vestibule length of 0 mm was significantly lower than in nests with a vestibule length range of 1–30 mm, 30–60 mm, and 60–90 mm. Our results bring new insights on how nesting success is improved by adjusting nest characteristics, and also provide a basis for the conservation and utilization of solitary wasps.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.138703

Authors: Marcia Adler, Mariela Ajhuacho-Villalobos, Luis Flores-Prado, Santiago Benitez-Vieyra, Kathy Collao-Alvarado, Carlos F. Pinto

Abstract: Stingless bees (Apidae: Meliponini) primarily feed on nectar and pollen from a wide diversity of flowering plants. By doing so they pollinate these flowers thus contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem stability. The pollen they collect provides essential nutrients for brood rearing and colony growth. This study aimed to characterize the floral resources available to stingless bees in a Tucumano-Boliviano Forest, including their pollen protein content and, through construction of an interaction network and preference analysis, understand their foraging behavior. Only 8 out of 25 pollen types sampled within the study site around the meliponaries were collected by the bees. Pollen pots also contained many types of pollen not from to plant species in the study area. Pollen from Capsicum minutiflorum (Solanaceae) was dominant in almost every hive (up to 98.7% of pollen composition). Additionally, protein content of Capsicum minutiflorum pollen (67% w/w) was the highest of all species present at the study site and explained almost 100% of the protein content in the hives of Tetragonisca angustula, and Scaptotrigona depilis, and almost 80% and 75% of the protein content in those of Scaptotrigona polysticta and Melipona rufiventris, respectively. These results suggest that stingless bees preferentially collect pollen with higher protein content.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.156087

Authors: Álvaro Pérez-Gómez, Íñigo Sánchez-García, José Manuel Royo, Jean-Yves Rasplus, Jairo Robla

Abstract: The plant genus Ficus (Moraceae) includes keystone tree species in tropical ecosystems, providing essential resources for a wide range of animals. Due to their ornamental value, fig trees have been introduced beyond their native ranges, often accompanied by their natural pollinators, which in some cases has led to ecological invasions. This study documents, for the first time, the presence of several pollinating and non-pollinating fig wasps (Chalcidoidea) on the Iberian Peninsula, focusing on three exotic Ficus species: Ficus microcarpa L.f., 1782, F. rubiginosa Desf. ex Vent., 1805 and F. macrophylla Pers., 1807. Through syconia sampling and dissection, we identified six fig wasp species: the pollinators Eupristina aff. verticillata (Waterston, 1921) and Pleistodontes imperialis Saunders, 1882, the gall-formers Eufroggattisca okinavensis Ishii, 1934, Josephiella microcarpae Beardsley & Rasplus, 2001, Walkerella microcarpae Bouček, 1993, and the parasitoid Philotrypesis okinavensis Ishii, 1934. Additionally, we documented several cases of non-native Ficus species reproducing spontaneously in urban areas, suggesting a significant ecological establishment and invasive spread through sexual reproduction. This spread poses potential risks to urban infrastructure, as the robust root systems of fig trees can damage buildings, pavements, urban trees, and heritage sites. Finally, we observed urban native and non-native bird species consuming mature fig syconia, which likely assist in the dispersal of these plants. Our findings underscore the need for further studies on the ecological impact of introduced Ficus species in non-native regions, their long-term economic consequences for urban heritage, and the continued monitoring of pollinator fig wasp populations.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.152867

Authors: Guerin E. Brown, Corey J. Lewis, Kathy Fridrich, Dylan G. Jones, Elijah A. Goodwin, Christian L. Weinrich, MaKella J. Steffensen, Kirsten M. Prior, Andrew A. Forbes

Abstract: Invasive species are among the greatest threats to ecosystems, but our ability to detect species introductions varies across taxa. Parasitoid wasps, though one of the most species-rich groups of all animals, are small and have ephemeral adult stages, such that they often go unnoticed. Here, we document two separate introductions of European parasitoids of oak gall wasps into North America. Both wasps key morphologically to Bootanomyia dorsalis (Fabricus), which previous genetic data from Europe suggest comprises two distinct species, B. dorsalis sp. 1 and B. dorsalis sp. 2. We find B. dorsalis sp. 1 in oak galls from New York, USA and B. dorsalis sp. 2 in oak galls from Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia, Canada. All oak gall wasp hosts were North American natives. We detect no genetic variation at the mtCOI locus within B. dorsalis sp. 2 specimens, suggesting this introduction may have had only a small number of founder individuals. In their native ranges, both species attack several different gall wasp hosts, and we likewise reared both from galls of multiple North American gall wasp hosts, suggesting a potential for widespread impact on North American gall insect communities. These introductions were detected only because our research groups are actively sampling and identifying parasitoid communities across gall habitats. Most parasitoid communities are not regularly sampled across hosts, time and space, or are well characterized, such that many more undetected wasp introductions may be impacting native insects worldwide.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.155465

Authors: Ekaterina V. Tselikh, Oksana V. Kosheleva, Deok-Seo Ku, Jaehyeon Lee, Sergey A. Belokobylskij

Abstract: The hymenopteran parasitoid complex from the families Braconidae, Eulophidae and Pteromalidae of Cryphalus fulvus Niisima, 1908 (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) developing on Pinus densiflora Siebold & Zuccarini, 1842 are studied in the Korean Peninsula. Two new chalcidoid species, Aprostocetus (Aprostocetus) tselikhae Kosheleva, sp. nov. (Eulophidae) and Allocricellius minutus Tselikh, Ku & Lee, sp. nov. (Pteromalidae), are described and illustrated. An updated diagnosis and illustrations of the rare pteromalid monotypic genus Sigynia Hedqvist, 1974 are given; the type species Sigynia ernobii Hedqvist, 1974 is redescribed and illustrated. One species of Eulophidae, Pediobius moldavicus Bouček, 1965, and two species of Pteromalidae, Rhaphitelus maculatus Walker, 1834 and Sigynia ernobii Hedqvist, 1974, are reared from the larvae of Cryphalus fulvus for the first time. Three pteromalid genera Allocricellius Yang, 1996, Rhaphitelus Walker, 1834 and Sigynia Hedqvist, 1974 are recorded from Korea for the first time.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.148115

Authors: Ryoji Kawai, Seonwoo Yoon, David G. Notton

Abstract: Eastern Palaearctic Tetramopria are reviewed; the previously unknown female of T. turbinata is described; T. tortilis is newly recorded from Korea and T. turbinata is newly recorded from Japan; an updated key for all Palaearctic Tetramopria species is given. For both Eastern Palaearctic Tetramopria species we report observations of mating, and interactions between the wasps and their host ants.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.148947

Authors: Sarah von Adelmannsfelden, Felix Fornoff

Abstract: Isodontia mexicana (Sphecidae) is a neozoic wasp in Europe. Since its first recording in France in the 1960s, it has spread throughout Europe and is now considered established. It preys on grasshoppers for its larvae but so far, there is little empirical evidence on the composition of prey species and the wasp’s preference for nest tube diameters from Europe. For further insights into prey and nesting preferences, we placed layer nests with 4 different cavity diameters in contrasting habitats in Southwest Germany. The wasp’s prey consisted of two grasshopper species, Oecanthus pellucens and Meconema meridionale. For O. pellucens, 80% of the prey found were female, for M. meridionale 52% and the mean body length of M. meridionale was 11.92 mm (SD = 0.95) and that of O. pellucens was 12.31 mm (SD = 1.02). The preferred cavity diameter for nests was 11 mm, with preference given to deeper cavities within the offered layer nest. The flexibility in prey species may reduce the threat for individual prey species populations, but may allow further spread of the Sphecid wasp. However, the preference for relatively large diameters reduces the expected competition risk with native bees below previous expectations.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.151607

Authors: Mostafa Ghafouri Moghaddam, Tobias Salden, Minoo Heidari Latibari, Buntika A. Butcher

Abstract: The subgenus Larsoceraphron Dessart, 1981 of the genus Ceraphron Jurine, 1807 is reviewed, and a new species, Ceraphron (Larsoceraphron) chularoipaad sp. nov., from Thailand is described and illustrated. This represents the first species-level record of the genus Ceraphron in Thailand. Additionally, we provide the redescriptions and illustrations of three previously known species viz., C. (L.) huggerti, C. (L.) sylviae, and C. (L.) tobiasi. We also include two identification keys for all known subgenera of Ceraphron and species of the subgenus Larsoceraphron.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.144518

Authors: Salinee Khachonpisitsak, Weeyawat Jaitrong, Tadsanai Jeenthong, Chinnakit Wongkunanusorn, Kumron Laedprathom, Thotsapol Chaianunporn, Adam Khalife, Sunittra Aupanun, Fuminori Ito

Abstract: Seasonal changes affect the distribution and behavior of animals. Ant societies are strongly affected by the dry season: they suffer from high temperatures and desiccation, but also from the lower availability of insect prey. However, some species of ants are involved in mutualistic relationships with myrmecophytic plants that provide a moist nesting space and nutrition. The effects of seasonal changes on such ant-plant symbioses are poorly understood. In this study, we report the nesting habits, colony composition and reproductive status of a plant-ant species, Cladomyrma sirindhornae Jaitrong, Laedprathom & Yamane, 2013 in the wet and dry seasons in Thailand. C. sirindhornae nested inside vines of Sphenodesme pentandra Jack, a pioneer species found in secondary dry evergreen forests and at forest edges which provides naturally hollowed stems for ant colonies. Among the 243 observed vines in this study, 223 vines (92%) were inhabited by C. sirindhornae while only 11 (4.5%) were occupied by other ant species, suggesting a high specialization of the ant-plant mutualism. C. sirindhornae nested within the cavities of the host plant, extending throughout the stems and branches from the base to the canopy. A comparison of ten colonies collected in the dry season and ten in the wet season showed no effects of seasonality on colony size and proportion of larvae, worker pupae and scale insects. However, sexual pupae and adults were more abundant in the wet season than in the dry season. Our results suggest that myrmecophytes buffer seasonal variations, allowing plant-ant colonies to grow year-round, while reproductives are produced only when conditions outside are favorable for colony founding.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.151974

Authors: Moo-Sung Kim, Il-Kwon Kim, Michael Sharkey, Ilgoo Kang

Abstract: South Korea has been affected by pine wilt disease (PWD), with the vectors Monochamus alternatus Hope, 1842 and M. saltuarius Gebler, 1830 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) and PWD has expanded severely in southeastern South Korea since the late 2010s. In the pursuit of environmental-friendly pest management, we searched for potential natural enemies of M. alternatus. In 2019, we reared specimens of M. alternatus and confirmed that members of Doggerella (Lelejobracon) chasanica (Tobias, 2000) eclosed from them, for the first time. The average parasitism rate for D. (L.) chasanica was 4.2%, with a maximum parasitism rate of 5.9% in the sites investigated. Herein, we provide information on how we collected and reared M. alternatus along with a brief biological note, as well as re-description and a brief biological note of the parasitoid D. chasanica.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.152315

Authors: Meng-Meng Liu, Min Li, Shuang Li, Ze-Jian Li, Mei-Cai Wei

Abstract: In this paper, a new species of Pristiphora is described and illustrated, P. brevitheca sp. nov. collected in Hebei Province from China. Based on the morphological characteristics of females and males and the maximum likelihood tree analysis based on COI, it is determined that this new species belongs to the P. abietina group. Partial mitochondrial genome and 21 tRNA secondary structures of the new species are described. The partial mitochondrial genome (16,187 bp) contains 36 genes: 13 protein-coding genes, 21 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs. Notably, trnQ and the control region (CR) are missing from the assembly. The A+T content of P. brevitheca mitochondrial genome is 80.9%. Phylogenetic analysis showed that P. brevitheca belongs to the P. abietina group, and this also supports the monophyly of the group. The consumption of Picea meyeri (Pinaceae) needles by the new species results in the complete defoliation of some trees. Some biological characteristics of the new species are also provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.150254

Authors: James B. Whitfield, Jose L. Fernandez-Triana, Caroline Boudreault

Abstract: Two morphologically unusual new neotropical genera of Miracinae, Paramomirax Whitfield and Fernandez-Triana, and Fusimirax Whitfield and Fernandez-Triana, are here proposed and described. The two new genera differ strikingly from previously known Miracinae in having completely different patterns of desclerotization of the anterior metasomal tergites. Paramomirax, so far known only from paramo vegetation at high elevation in Colombia, is represented by P. peckorum Whitfield, new species. Fusimirax, so far known only from lower elevation forests in the Dominican Republic, is described from three species, F. masneri Whitfield & Fernandez-Triana, new species, F. robusta Whitfield, new species, and F. gracilis, Whitfield, new species. None of the four species has any recorded hosts yet, although all previous Miracinae with known hosts attack leaf-mining and bark-mining moth larvae.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.144864

Authors: Avunjikkattu Parambil Ranjith, Donald L. J. Quicke, Kittipum Chansri, Buntika A. Butcher

Abstract: Chelonastichus Ranjith & Quicke, gen. nov., is described based on a new species, C. hanssoni Ranjith & Quicke, sp. nov., from Thailand. Whereas most Eulophidae exhibit a delicate, collapsible body, the new genus, is the first known case within the family that possesses a coarsely-sculptured metasomal carapace formed by Gt5, with Gt2–4 short. The possible affinities of the new genus are discussed and it is tentatively placed in the Tetrastichinae.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.151036

Authors: Colin R. Morrison, Wyatt R. Armstrong, Robert M. Plowes, Lawrence E. Gilbert, José L. Fernández-Triana

Abstract: We describe the wasp Iconella melitaraevora sp. nov. (Braconidae, Microgastrinae), a parasitoid of Melitara subumbrella caterpillars (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae). Multiple wasp cohorts were reared from hosts collected in a montane dryland habitat of New Mexico, USA. This is the first case of gregariousness in Iconella. An updated key to American Iconella species is provided. We present a maximum likelihood tree using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) locus of this species relative to other described Iconella species from the Americas. We also describe the biology and environmental conditions where Iconella melitaraevora sp. nov. was discovered in the context of its prickly pear cactus (Opuntia Mill.) herbivore host. The potential biological control capacity of microgastrine wasps which attack prickly pear specialist herbivores is discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.150250

Authors: Tien Van Tran, Thuong Thi Vu, Cuong Quang Nguyen, Lien Thi Phuong Nguyen

Abstract: Additional information on the genus Euodynerus Dalla Torre from Vietnam is given. One new species, Euodynerus (Pareuodynerus) furvus sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Detailed descriptions of the male genitalia and new local records are presented for other species of the genus, including E. (Euodynerus) dantici (von Schulthess), E. (Pareuodynerus) nipanicus (von Schulthess), and E. (P.) trilobus (Fabricius). Of these, the male genitalia of E. trilobus are described for the first time. A key is provided to species of the genus Euodynerus occurring in the Oriental region.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.141572

Authors: Jaehee Kim, Oh-Seok Kwon, Seiki Yamane, Moon Bo Choi

Abstract: The social wasp genus Vespa, encompassing insects commonly referred to as hornets, consists of 22 species that are predominantly distributed across the Palearctic and Indomalayan regions. These harmful pests, often spread through trade, pose risks to public health. Hornet larvae undergo development within the protected environment of nests. Hence, they may exhibit more conserved characteristics than adults, which face direct selection pressure. To date, larval morphology has been studied in only approximately half of the 22 known hornet species, and in-depth comparative research on species within the genus Vespa is scarce. In South Korea, comprehensive descriptions and identification keys for the eight reported species and two subspecies are lacking. To address this gap, this study aimed to provide morphological descriptions and identification characteristics of mature larvae from eight Vespa species in South Korea. Between 2021 and 2024, larvae were collected from nests across South Korea. The larvae were observed under scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and stereo microscopy to evaluate various morphological characteristics. Results indicated that distinguishing hornet larvae morphologically from larvae of other taxonomic groups is challenging. Specifically, no significant morphological differences were noted between V. velutina nigrithorax and V. simillima simillima. The lack of distinctive morphological features in larvae complicates taxonomic identification, making it more challenging compared to the identification of adult specimens.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.144997

Authors: Antonio José Pérez-Delgado, Irene Santos-Perdomo, Eduardo Jiménez-García, David Lugo, Daniel Suárez

Abstract: Wasmannia auropunctata, also known as the ‘little fire ant’ or ‘electric ant’, is an invasive species that represents a serious threat to biodiversity and public health globally due to its intrinsic characteristics and low detectability. Here, through a combination of morphological and molecular identification, the first record of this species in the oceanic archipelago of the Canary Islands is presented. Molecular data reveal that the population from the Canary Islands is completely different from another population established in Málaga (mainland Spain), which suggests that the western Palearctic has been colonised from at least two independent events. The early detection of this species in a very limited area provides an important temporal window for its eradication and the prevention of its dispersal to other areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.144215

Authors: Valmir A. Costa, Norman Johnson, Adriana Salomão, João Vasconcellos-Neto, Ana Wengrat, Karine Schoeninger

Abstract: Trissolcus adrianae Costa & Johnson, sp. nov. is described. It is an egg parasitoid of the neotropical bark bug Phloea subquadrata Spinola (Hemiptera, Phloeidae) on Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel (Myrtales, Myrtaceae). Trissolcus adrianae belongs to the flavipes species group and can easily be distinguished from other flavipes group members by its noticeably depressed habitus; head oblong in anterior view; bidentate mandibles; frontal depression delimited dorsally by carina; orbital furrow sculptured, constricted through most of its length by lateral expansion of frons; notauli absent; and the length of T3–T6 subequal to the length of T2. This is the first species of Scelionidae associated with the family Phloeidae (Hemiptera: Pentatomoidea) and the first report of parasitism of Phloeidae eggs as well.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.141108

Authors: Concepción Martínez-Peralta, Hugo E. Fierros-López, Karina Sánchez-Echeverría, Israel Valencia-Esquivel, Karla M. Aguilar-Dorantes

Abstract: Bee communities are strongly dependent on the floral resources provided by vegetation; hence, factors that affect floral availability also affect bee communities. In this study, we compare bee diversity and seasonality between two localities in the Tropical Dry Forest (TDF) of central Mexico. We quantified the vegetation cover at each locality using satellite imagery and compared it between localities using linear models. At each locality, we sampled wild bees over one year, covering two rainy seasons and one dry season. Bees were sampled using entomological nets, focusing on understory vegetation. Association of bee abundance with each season and locality was tested using a chi-squared test. Diversity was estimated using Hill numbers, and species composition was analyzed using non-metric multidimensional scaling. Diversity and composition were compared across localities and seasons. We collected 1,076 bees of 148 species, 55 genera, and five families. The most abundant families were Apidae and Megachilidae. There were no significant differences between sites in the diversity of any of the orders. The diversity of the three orders was significantly higher at both localities during the 2015 rainy season. Our results indicate that Mexican TDF is rich in bee species. However, the differences in community composition between localities and the current deforestation rate of these habitats imposes challenges to effectively preserve bees in the tropical dry forest.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.145619

Authors: Zhi-Zhi Liu, Qiang Li, Li Ma

Abstract: The taxonomy of the genus Ampulex in China is studied, three new species from Yunnan, Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi Provinces are described: Ampulex fronticarinalis Liu & Li, sp. nov., Ampulex genapunctata Liu & Li, sp. nov., and Ampulex rubifemoralis Liu & Li, sp. nov. Additionally, Ampulex tridentata Tsuneki, 1982 is recorded from China, and the female of Ampulex clypecomplana Chen and Q. Li, 2010 is described for the first time. An identification key and a checklist of the Chinese species of Ampulex are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.138425

Authors: Susana E. Rodríguez-Rodríguez, José L. Fernández-Triana, J. Refugio Lomeli-Flores, Marcelino Martínez-Núñez, Esteban Rodríguez-Leyva, Héctor González-Hernández, Julio S. Bernal

Abstract: Between 1994 and 1995, Cotesia vestalis (Haliday 1834) (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) was introduced from the USA to Mexico to set up a biological control program for Plutella xylostella; nevertheless, its field establishment was never confirmed. From 2020 to 2024, a braconid parasitoid on P. xylostella larvae was collected in broccoli in Guanajuato state, the main brassicas producer in Mexico. Those collections had initially been linked to the former releases, but this work corroborated that C. vestalis has not been recovered in Guanajuato, but rather an unidentified species of another braconid was confirmed. The objective of this work was to identify it with classical and molecular taxonomy, and to describe its basic biology under laboratory conditions. Morphological identification was performed using the descriptions of Blanchard (1994) and molecular analysis was performed using the 16S, 28S and COI markers. The parasitoid was identified as Apanteles piceotrichosus Blanchard, this species has been previously reported only from Argentina, Chile and Brazil, so it represents the first record for Mexico and its gene sequence is reported for the first time. A. piceotrichosus is a solitary koinobiont endoparasitoid of P. xylostella larvae. The egg is hymenopteriform with an incubation period of 0.92 d; larval and pupal stages lasted 5.86 ± 0.01 d, and 5.65 ± 0.02 d, respectively. Overall, there were 12.43 ± 0.01 d from egg to adult emergence. With honey availability, females and males lived 16.08 ± 0.19 and 17.58 ± 0.54 d, respectively.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.141208

Authors: Petr Bogusch, Adriana Zahradníková

Abstract: Although bees and wasps are well known as aposematically coloured insects, the role of their aposematic patterns has not been studied to the same extent as other animal and insect groups, i.e., butterflies or beetles. We focused on the fauna of Central Europe, a region with a high diversity of bees and wasps, with more than 1200 species recorded. For each species, we recorded whether aposematic colouration was present as well as which of the main four colouration combinations was present, for both males and females. The same was studied for the three main groups of mimics: clearwing moths, hoverflies, and longhorn beetles. We found that more than 73% of bees and wasps were aposematically coloured, with the black-yellow combination being the most common, recorded in more than half of all aposematically coloured species. The proportions of the main colour combinations varied among the studied groups of bees and wasps. All Chrysididae were metallic. Pompilidae were dominantly black-red, while most Mutillidae exhibited a black-red-white colouration. Parasitic species were more often aposematic (more than 95%) than nesting predators and nesting herbivores were. Regarding the mimics, clearwing moths were nearly all aposematic, and they used Batesian mimicry as their main defence against predators. In contrast, only approximately half of the longhorn beetles were aposematic, whereas the rest of the species used crypsis. All groups of mimics were most commonly coloured black-yellow, but several species in all three groups also possessed the other three colour combinations. Aposematic coloration, along with both Batesian and Müllerian mimicry, functions as a warning signal to vertebrate predators but can also deter insect predators and parasites. However, these interactions remain understudied and deserve further investigation.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.144079

Authors: Željko Tomanović, Korana Kocić, Sofía Belén Forte, Joel Nazareno Lentini, María del Pilar Medialdea, Camila Noemí Villar, Analí Bustos, Ana Lia Gayan-Quijano, Francisco Javier Peris-Felipo, Mariano Devoto

Abstract: During two seasons of field sampling in crop fields in Argentina, a total of 2,276 Aphidiinae specimens were collected using Malaise traps positioned in maize, soybean, and wheat fields. Eight known species of aphid parasitoids were identified (Aphidius platensis Brethes, 1913, A. ervi Haliday, 1834, A. rhopalosiphi de Stefani-Perez, 1902, A. uzbekistanicus Luzhetzki, 1960, A. matricariae Haliday, 1834, Diaeretiella rapae (McIntosh, 1855), Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Cresson, 1880), and Praon gallicum Starý, 1971). Additionally, two new species of aphid parasitoids were discovered, bringing the total to ten species reported from these crops in the country. Here, we describe and provide diagnoses for Aphidius brethes sp. nov. and Trioxys pampas sp. nov., which is the first record of winged species of the genus Trioxys in South America.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.108041

Authors: Janitce A. Harwood, William T. Wcislo

Abstract: Halictine bees are a group that are useful for understanding the evolutionary origins of social behavior and the evolution of nest architecture. Most species nest in the soil, but there have been several evolutionary transitions to nesting in wood. Megalopta is a nocturnal genus and represents one of the larger radiations of wood-nesting bees in the Halictinae. These bees have been observed nesting in branches and stems from trees and lianas, but it is not known to which species they belong. There is only a record of a nest in a dead trunk of Apeiba tibourbou Aubl. (Malvaceae, Tilioideae). This research aims to identify the wood plant species used as substrata by Megalopta genalis and M. amoena bees to build their nests. Fieldwork was conducted on Barro Colorado Island. Fifty-nine occupied nests were grouped in 14 morphospecies and anatomically described using transverse, longitudinal and radial sections cut with a microtome following standard histological techniques. Anatomical features of the samples belong to 11 plant species, represented by eight families of angiosperm plants and 11 genera. Considering there are anatomical features that make possible to distinguish trees and lianas like wide vessels, vessel dimorphism, abundance of axial parenchyma and others, we can determine that Megalopta bees prefer wood substrates with high proportion of soft tissues from trees or shrubs and possibly mostly liana plant species. The species most used as substrata for nesting were Uncaria tomentosa DC. (Rubiaceae), Hylenaea praecelsa (Miers) A.C.Sm. (Celastraceae) and Guettarda L. (Rubiaceae).

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.143759

Authors: Matthias Buck, Andrew M. R. Bennett

Abstract: The present checklist is the product of a critical taxonomic review of the Canadian/Alaskan fauna during the previous two decades. As of December 2024, 531 described species in 84 genera of apoid wasps (Ammoplanidae, Ampulicidae, Astatidae, Bembicidae, Crabronidae, Mellinidae, Pemphredonidae, Philanthidae, Psenidae, Sphecidae) are recorded from Canada and Alaska. Seventy species and two genera (Psammaletes Pate and Larra Fabricius) are newly recorded from the area, including eight accidentally introduced species and three naturally Holarctic species. Compared to the previous Catalog of Hymenoptera in America north of Mexico (Krombein 1979) the number of recorded species in Canada and Alaska has increased by 124% and the number of genera by 42%. The genera Foxia Ashmead and Pluto Pate are also recorded for the first time, but they are not included in the checklist because their species remain either unidentified or undescribed. A total of 23 species are non-native and have been introduced accidentally from other biogeographic regions. Crabro dietrichi R. Bohart is newly recognized as the only species endemic to the area of the checklist (restricted to Prince Edward Island, Canada). A total of 2109 provincial, territorial and Alaskan records are included, 705 of which (33.4%) are new. Records are based on verified material from 22 different collections, only 1.6% rely exclusively on data in the literature. The Alaskan fauna consists of 63 species (31 new records) in 24 genera (eight new records) and seven families, all of which are also known from Canada. No apoid wasps have been found in Greenland. The regions with the most diverse faunas are Alberta (326 species, 64 genera), Ontario (294 spp., 71 genera), British Columbia (292 spp., 64 genera) and Saskatchewan (248 spp., 58 genera). The highest number of new records are from Alberta (124 spp.), Saskatchewan (117 spp.), Manitoba (113 spp.) and New Brunswick (60 spp.). The greatest numbers of species exclusive to one political area within Canada and Alaska are recorded from British Columbia (63 spp.) and Ontario (44 spp.). In order to clarify species concepts, type material or images of types of 57 nominal species were examined. This led to 25 taxonomic changes. Eight synonyms are reinstated as valid species: Gorytes decorus Fox, sp. restit., Nysson freyigessneri Handlirsch, sp. restit., Lindenius errans (Fox), sp. restit., Oxybelus pacificus (Rohwer), sp. restit., Diodontus antennatus (Mickel), sp. restit. (extralimital to the area of the checklist), D. nigritus Fox, sp. restit. and Pemphredon bipartior Fox, sp. restit. Diodontus beulahensis (Rohwer), sp. restit. (extralimital to the area of the checklist) is a suspected synonym of D. americanus Packard. Fourteen new or revised synonymies are proposed: Crabro canningsi Finnamore, syn. nov. = C. maeklini Morawitz, Crossocerus eriogoni (Rohwer), syn. nov. = C. minimus (Packard), Solierella foxii (Viereck, 1906; nec 1902) (preoccupied), syn. rev. = S. mammillata Buck, nom. nov.; Diodontus gillettei Fox, syn. nov., D. rugosus Fox, syn. nov., D. florissantensis Rohwer, syn. rev., D. bidentatus Rohwer, syn. nov., D. siouxensis (Mickel), syn. nov., and D. striatus (Mickel), syn. nov. are all = D. americanus; D. vallicolae Rohwer, syn. nov., D. vallicolae salicis Rohwer, syn. rev., D. maestus (Mickel), syn. rev. and D. ater (Mickel), syn. rev. are all = D. nigritus Fox; Mimesa gregaria (Fox), syn. nov. = M. unicincta Cresson. Two new replacement names are proposed for preoccupied names: Solierella mammillata Buck, nom. nov. (for Niteliopsis foxii Viereck, 1906) and Mimesa curta Pulawski & Buck, nom. nov. (for Psen simplex Malloch, 1933). In an appendix, taxonomic changes and revised species concepts of 33 species or species complexes are briefly explained in order to clarify their status and avoid confusion. The biogeography of Canadian and Alaskan species is discussed, including Holarctic species and species shared with other biogeographic regions, distribution patterns within the Nearctic region, endemism, remarkable new records, geographic prevalence of nesting habits, distribution patterns and introduction timelines of introduced species, as well as faunal change. Diodontus minutus (Fabricius) is newly recognized as an introduced species from the Palearctic region despite first being discovered in North America in 1934. Based on literature data and observations on the internet platform iNaturalist.org, we document recent, rapid range expansions in ten native species of Sphecidae, Philanthidae and Bembicidae. These trends are likely caused by climate change and are projected to further increase apoid wasp diversity in Canada in the future. Lastly, we discuss the important contribution citizen science is making to faunistic wasp research through iNaturalist and other collaborative websites.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.142965

Authors: Hugo Gaspar, Simone Flaminio, Albano Soares, Cristina Rufino, João Loureiro, Sílvia Castro, Thomas J. Wood

Abstract: Entomological collections hold significant scientific potential, especially understudied taxa of historical collections from important biogeographical regions, such as bees in Portugal. The Science Museum of the University of Coimbra (MCUC) holds the largest historical collection of Portuguese bees, primarily because M.A. Diniz, one of the few Portuguese bee experts, was based in this institution during the 20th century, and several historical collections are stored there from that period and before. Nevertheless, most of the records were unpublished and unrevised. In this work, we revised and databased (via GBIF) 13,374 Portuguese bee records (11,053 unpublished), covering 464 species, of which 11 are new to Portuguese fauna. All 9 type specimens from Portuguese species (1 holotype, 2 syntypes, 5 paratypes and 1 dismissed type) were reported and photographed. We also provide an update of the Anthophila checklist for continental Portugal, with three additional unreported species from other institutions (for a total of 14 new species) and removal or confirmation of exclusion of 19 previously reported species, producing a revised total for the Portuguese continental bee fauna of 736 species.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.133204

Authors: Perpetua Ndubuisi Onyinyechi, Natália Martins Travenzoli, Maykon Passos Cristiano, Danon Clemes Cardoso

Abstract: Accurate systematic classification of biodiversity is fundamental for ecological and evolutionary studies, especially in a world where biodiversity is increasingly reduced and threatened. In the present study we propose using exploratory analysis of genetic markers to obtain additional information from the comparison of sequences among species as molecular traits (MTs). These molecular traits can in turn provide independent information for integrative taxonomy, aiding genus-level circumscriptions. Therefore, we use the leafcutting ant genera Amoimyrmex Cristiano et al., 2020, Atta Fabricius, 1804 and Acromyrmex Mayr, 1865 as models to evaluate a mitochondrial genome fragment regularly applied in phylogenetic and evolutionary studies. Bioinformatic analysis revealed shared structural evidence between species that can serve as diagnostic characters, distinguishing them from other species and supporting the classification of the three genera of leafcutting ants. The molecular features of the mitogenome segments, along with other traits such as chromosome number, karyotype features, molecular phylogeny, and morphological data can be used in an integrative framework to access biodiversity and purpose taxonomic hypothesis.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.138933

Authors: Matteo Annessi, Alessandra Riccieri, Marilena Marconi, Sabrina Rossi, Andrea Di Giulio

Abstract: Wild bees are essential pollinators of both native and cultivated plants, but their populations are declining worldwide. Conservation efforts are hindered by insufficient data, especially in the Mediterranean basin, which hosts some of the most diverse pollinator communities in the world. Particularly in Sardinia, the second largest island in the Mediterranean, information on the bee fauna is still limited. The aim of this work was to provide the first checklist of Apoidea Anthophila from an unexplored peninsula in north-eastern Sardinia (Italy), by combining traditional (morphologically-based) taxonomy and DNA barcoding. In addition, records of flower visits are provided and shown in a visitor network to enrich the scarce data on the associations between wild bees and plants in the Mediterranean Region. Bees were sampled from April to October 2022–2023 with two Malaise traps and nets. DNA was extracted to amplify sequences of the mitochondrial gene Cyotochrome oxydase I, which were then compared with those in BOLD using the identification tool and by constructing neighbor-joining phylogenetic trees. Seventy-six different species belonging to 29 genera and six families were collected and identified. A total of 212 COI sequences were obtained for 61 different species, many of which had not yet been sequenced from Italian populations. Five of the collected taxa are Sardo-Corsican endemics, whereas six species are newly recorded from Sardinia. Finally, we highlight potential taxonomic issues and new flower visit records, emphasizing the need for further research to better understand the taxonomy and ecology of this diverse group of insects toward their conservation.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.133593

Authors: Alana R. McClelland, Matthew R. Moore, Jonathan S. Bremer, Elijah J. Talamas, Susan E. Halbert, Virgine T. Singarayan, Bradley T. Brown, Matthew F. Purcell, Dean R. Brookes, Matthew G. Hentz

Abstract: Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) is an invasive tree in Florida, USA, for which a psyllid, Boreioglycaspis melaleucae (Moore) (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae), was successfully established in April, 2002 to control its spread. A parasitoid wasp, Psyllaephagus migrator McClelland, sp. nov. was found to parasitize this psyllid in Australia, which we consider to be its native range, and in Florida, where we consider it to be adventive. We provide a description, high resolution images and morphological diagnosis for P. migrator and a molecular data set of five gene regions to facilitate its identification and use in phylogenetic studies. The biology of the parasitoid is presented with documentation of its immature stages. Trapping data suggest that P. migrator has reduced populations of the biocontrol agent B. melaleucae in Florida.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.137948

Authors: Diego Patiño-Sauma, Carlos Ruiz, John S. Ascher

Abstract: In recent years, the development of biodiversity inventorying platforms has contributed to the detection of exotic species, bringing awareness to the general public about their impact on native habitats. This is important in the Canary Islands and other oceanic archipelagos, where invasive species pose a great risk to the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity monitoring strategies may not be completely adequate in their detection. Here we report for the first time the occurrence of the Florentine wool carder bee, Anthidium florentinum, in the Canary Islands and address its current distribution in the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria with the help of citizen science. Other bee species recently reported as new to the archipelago through the use of iNaturalist are summarized. The possible effects of A. florentinum on native bee communities in the archipelago, along with the role of cities in hosting biological invasions are also discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.131742

Authors: Sangjin Kim, JuHyeong Sohn, Yerim Lee, Yeonghyeok Yu, Hyojoong Kim

Abstract: The genera Bioxys Starý & Schlinger, 1967 and Parabioxys Shi & Chen, 2001 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae) are each known to contain only one species worldwide. Bioxys japonicus Starý & Schlinger, 1967 was recorded in South Korea in 1983, but this record should be considered doubtful. Parabioxys songbaiensis Shi & Chen, 2001 is now reported for the first time in South Korea. In this study, we provide detailed descriptions and photographic documentation of these two little-known species, B. japonicus and P. songbaiensis. Additionally, we present mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcode region data and conduct a Bayesian tree analysis of closely related taxa.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.131191

Authors: Alejandro Muñoz-Urias, Lisset Araujo-Alanis, Francisco Martín Huerta-Martínez, Cesar Jacobo-Pereira, Alvaro Edwin Razo-León

Abstract: Understanding the effects of urbanization on bee communities is essential for conservation and management programs for these pollinators. We investigated bee communities in two distinct land-use conditions in Mexico: one within the Bosque el Nixticuil-San Esteban-El Diente Natural Protected Area, which represents a conserved oak forest, and the other in a highly urbanized area in adjacent parks located approximately one kilometer from the conservation area in the Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara with a population of 5.3 million. The objectives of the study were to 1) record the effects of urbanization on bee communities in terms of species richness, abundance and α and β diversity in an oak forest within a natural protected area and the adjacent urban area, and 2) identify the most susceptible bees and those that benefit from urbanization, and 3) to relate vegetation to bee communities. The results of the rarefaction analysis indicate that the protected natural area exhibited significantly higher richness and diversity than the urbanized area. Beta diversity analysis revealed a low species turnover, accompanied by a high rate of bee loss between conditions. A limited number of species demostrate an increase in abundance within urban areas, mainly Ceratina species, Augochlora smaragdina and Centris nitida. Furthermore, the richness of life history traits of bees was analysed. In all cases, the number of species decreased, with mainly non-eusocial, cavity or wood nesting, and polylectic feeding bees prevailing in the urban area. The richness and abundance of bees is related to the richness of plants, so it was expected to find more species and genera in the natural area. In conclusion, urbanization has a negative impact on the richness and diversity of bee communities, as well as on species composition.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.137806

Authors: Mollie-Rosae Slater-Baker, Michelle Guzik, Juanita Rodriguez, Andy Howe, Alice Woodward, Nathan Ducker, Erinn Fagan-Jeffries

Abstract: Miracinae is a poorly known and rarely collected subfamily of parasitoid wasps belonging to the family Braconidae. Here, three new species are described from material collected by Australian regional schools as part of the Insect Investigators citizen science project and named in collaboration with students: Mirax supremus Slater-Baker, sp. nov., Mirax ceduna Slater-Baker, sp. nov. and Mirax kaatijan Slater-Baker, sp. nov. The barcoding region of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was obtained for each new species and analysed alongside all publicly available COI DNA barcodes for Miracinae on the Barcode of Life Database, to produce a molecular framework to guide species delimitation and efficient morphological examination. Full morphological descriptions are provided along with high quality images for each new species. A key to described Australian Miracinae is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.98.136200

Authors: Zhen Wang, Alexandr P. Rasnitsyn, Evgeny E. Perkovsky, Lars Vilhelmsen, Taiping Gao

Abstract: Two new species of the family †Falsiformicidae Rasnitsyn, 1975, Siccibythus robustus sp. nov. and Siccibythus aristovi sp. nov., are described from the mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber based on three well-preserved specimens. The new species belongs to †Siccibythus Cockx & McKellar, 2016, based on the elongate pronotum and fore wing with cells 2+3rm and 3r not enclosed with tubular veins. We summarize the diversity and distribution for all species of †Falsiformicidae and provide a revised key to the family. These new findings enhance the diversity of †Falsiformicidae in Kachin amber.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.139623

Authors: Alexander V. Fateryga, Maxim Yu. Proshchalykin, Evgeny V. Abakumov

Abstract: Hoplitis (Hoplitis) andreasmuelleri sp. nov., a member of the H. adunca species group, is described from the vicinity of Kurush (Samurskiy National Park, Dagestan, Russia). The new species is closely related to H. dagestanica Fateryga, Müller & Proshchalykin, 2023. Females of H. andreasmuelleri can be easily distinguished from those of H. dagestanica by a black antenna, a small impunctate triangular area at the base of the clypeus, ferruginous tarsi, sparse and often interrupted apical band of hairs on terga 1–5, and a whitish scopa. Males of H. andreasmuelleri can be easily distinguished from those of H. dagestanica by a black antenna, the last antennal article not tapering towards the apex, antennal articles 5–12 not modified, ferruginous tarsi, and the lateral lobes of the bilobed membranous appendage at the apical margin of sternum 6 laterally elongated into a rounded tip and medially not separated from each other by an emargination. Females of H. andreasmuelleri were recorded at flowers of two species of the genus Vicia L. (Fabaceae). Hoplitis (Kumobia) abbreviata (Morawitz, 1875) is reported from Russia (Altai Republic) for the first time. New distributional records are reported for H. (Alcidamea) fulva (Eversmann, 1852) and H. (Anthocopa) perezi (Ferton, 1894). Hoplitis (Anthocopa) papaveris (Latreille, 1799) is excluded from the fauna of Crimea and the south of European Russia from where it was previously reported based on a misidentification of H. perezi. The biology of H. perezi in Crimea is briefly discussed. An updated distributional list of all 39 species of Hoplitis known from Russia is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.137087

Authors: Judith M. Stahl, Fabrizio Lisi, Thaliana Samarin, Xingeng Wang, Elizabeth H. Beers, Kent M. Daane

Abstract: Taxonomic and host associations have been closely studied within the Ganaspis brasiliensis (Ihering, 1905) (Hymenoptera, Figitidae) complex as parasitoids of the spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera, Drosophilidae). Initially, five genetic groups (G1–G5) were identified that suggested the existence of cryptic species that vary in their host ranges and geographic distributions. What was referred to as the “G1” strain was recently described as G. kimorum Buffington, 2024, and approved for release as a classical biological control agent in the United States and parts of Europe. Concurrently, an adventive population of G. kimorum was found in British Columbia, Canada and is likely spreading through parts of the Pacific Northwest such as Washington State, USA. Here, we compare the reproductive compatibility and molecular similarity of laboratory-bred G. kimorum (collected in Tokyo, Japan) used for release in the USA and Europe with the adventive population found in Washington State, USA. Cross-breeding experiments between the Tokyo and the adventive population showed successful mating and the production of female offspring, indicating that they are reproductively compatible. For both populations, the mitochondrial COI barcode region was sequenced and further confirmed the conspecificity of the Tokyo and adventive Washington populations with published G. kimorum. These findings will help to better understand and document the effects of releases of G. kimorum and the reproductive success of adventive and released populations.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.139056

Authors: Hua-Yan Chen, Elijah Talamas, Zachary Lahey, Norman F. Johnson, Ci-Ding Lu, Guang-Hong Liang

Abstract: The pine moth, Dendrolimus houi (Lajonquiere), is a notorious insect pest of coniferous trees in South China. A gregarious egg parasitoid in the family Scelionidae shows great potential to be mass-reared for the biological control of D. houi. This parasitoid is identified as Telenomus dendrolimi (Matsumura) based on comparison to paratype specimens of Telenomus dendrolimusi Chu, a junior synonym of T. dendrolimi. Telenomus dendrolimi is redescribed and included in a molecular analysis. In addition to parasitizing D. houi, T. dendrolimi was found to successfully parasitize six other species under laboratory conditions, with Antheraea pernyi (Guérin-Méneville) the most suitable host for mass-rearing.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.133255

Authors: Jeong Jae Yoo, D. Christopher Darling

Abstract: The enigmatic Nearctic parasitoid Perilampus hyalinus Say (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Perilampidae) has long been suspected as a species complex with a wide range of host associations and differing modes of parasitism. In this study we clarify the status of this species by combining morphological evidence, two genes (COI and ITS2) and host information and recognize ten species in the P. hyalinus species complex in the Nearctic region. Eight new species are described: Perilampus arcus Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. crassus Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. neodiprioni Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. monocteni Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. pilosus Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. seneca Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., P. sonora Yoo & Darling, sp. nov., and P. ute Yoo & Darling, sp. nov. A reared specimen with a COI sequence is designated as the Neotype of P. hyalinus Say establishing this species as either a hyperparasitoid that parasitizes dipteran parasitoids of Orthoptera or a parasitoid of dipteran kleptoparasites of Crabronidae and Sphecidae that provision their nests with Orthoptera. Perilampus sirsiris (Argaman) and four of the new species are hyperparasitoids, parasitizing hymenopteran and dipteran parasitoids of Lepidoptera. Perilampus neodiprioni and P. monocteni can develop as both primary parasitoids of Diprionidae (Hymenoptera) and as hyperparasitoids, parasitizing dipteran and hymenopteran parasitoids of diprionid sawflies. Perilampus neodiprioni is strictly associated with Neodiprion sawflies, and P. monocteni is associated with Monoctenus sawflies.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.138683

Authors: Yang Li, Cornelis van Achterberg, Cheng-Jin Yan, Xue-Xin Chen

Abstract: The species of two genera (Bicarinibracon Quicke & Walker and Chelonogastra Ashmead) of the subfamily Braconinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from China are reviewed and 6 species are recognized, including 2 new species (Bicarinibracon concolor sp. nov. and Chelonogastra rugosa sp. nov.), which are described and illustrated. Bicarinibracon carini Chishti & Quicke, 1993 is reported from China for the first time. Keys to the Chinese species of the genera Bicarinibracon and Chelonogastra are provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.131822

Authors: Avunjikkattu P. Ranjith, Andrei E. Humala, Dharma Rajan Priyadarsanan, Buntika A. Butcher

Abstract: The ichneumonid subfamily Microleptinae is reported from India and Thailand for the first time. We describe four new species from India (Microleptes chiani Ranjith & Humala, sp. nov., M. gowrishankari Ranjith & Humala, sp. nov., M. sandeshkaduri Ranjith & Humala, sp. nov., M. tehriensis Ranjith & Humala, sp. nov.) and one new species from Thailand (M. depressus Ranjith & Humala, sp. nov.), and for the first time, we report the Chinese species, M. xinbinensis Sheng & Sun, from India and describe the hitherto unknown female. An identification key to the extant species of Microleptes is provided.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.138113

Authors: David N. Honsberger, Karl N. Magnacca, J. Hau‘oli Lorenzo-Elarco, Mark G. Wright

Abstract: Aspects of the life history and biology of two Prorops spp. are explored, Prorops maya sp. nov. and Prorops umiehu sp. nov. Aspects of their behavior are deduced through dissection of plant material and through the use of “phloem sandwich” style observation chambers. Both were found to be ectoparasitoids of adult Hypothenemus eruditus beetles. They thus show a novel feeding behavior as, along with a Plastanoxus sp., the only bethylids known to parasitize the adult stage of their hosts, and the only known ectoparasitoids of adult scolytids. Searching, stinging, host feeding, and oviposition behaviors are reported and illustrated with photographs and video. Oviposition occurs on the ventral side of the membraneous region between the pro- and mesothorax of the beetle, and larvae feed through this location. The projection on the frons, a defining character of the genus Prorops, is observed to function as a tongue and groove mechanism with which the adult female pushes on the edge of the prothoracic sclerite of the host beetle while maintaining use of its mandibles to chew on the membrane underneath for host feeding and in preparation for oviposition. Defensive action of a Hypothenemus sp. against the wasp's sting by clamping down on the intruding ovipositor between its pro- and mesothorax is also reported, though this behavior was only observed once and thus its generality is uncertain.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.130428

Authors: Andrew M. R. Bennett, Matthew L. Buffington, Andrew R. Deans, Mattias Forshage, George Melika, István Mikó, David R. Smith

Abstract: Distributional checklists of the extant, described species of five superfamilies of Hymenoptera of Canada, Alaska and Greenland are presented. In total, 296 species in 79 genera in 12 families are recorded: 55 species of Ceraphronoidea, classified in 10 genera in 2 families, 205 species of Cynipoidea in 58 genera in 5 families, 30 species of Evanioidea in 5 genera in 3 families of Evanioidea, 2 species of Stephanoidea in 2 genera in 1 family and 4 species of Trigonalyoidea in 4 genera in 1 family. Of the reported species, 281 (in 79 genera in 12 families) are listed from Canada, 31 (in 16 genera in 6 families) from Alaska, and 7 (in 5 genera in 2 families) from Greenland. The list includes 8 new generic records for Canada (1 Ceraphronoidea, 6 Cynipoidea and 1 Evanioidea) and 43 new Canadian species records (13 Ceraphronoidea, 28 Cynipoidea and 2 Evanioidea). For each species in Canada, distribution is tabulated by province or territory, except the province of Newfoundland and Labrador is divided into the island of Newfoundland and the region of Labrador. These checklists are compared with previous Nearctic and Palaearctic surveys, checklists and catalogues. Kleidotoma minima Provancher, 1883 (Figitidae) is moved from this genus to Hexacola Förster, 1869 to form H. minimum (Provancher, 1883), comb. nov. Amblynotus slossonae Crawford, 1917 (Figitidae) is moved from Melanips Walker, 1835 to Amphithectus Hartig, 1840 forming A. slossonae (Crawford, 1917), comb. nov.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.135489

Authors: Jinghong Li, Li Ma, Qiang Li

Abstract: Based on the key diagnostic characteristics such as petiole, clypeus, and hypersternaulus, five new species of Passaloecus from China are identified: P. clypearcuatus Li & Ma, sp. nov., P. clypeconvexus Li & Ma, sp. nov. P. edentutus Li & Ma, sp. nov., P. margdentatus Li & Ma, sp. nov., and P. sternoleios Li & Ma, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs of diagnostic characteristics are provided for these new species. Additionally, a key to the known species of Passaloecus in China is updated and illustrated, further enhancing the understanding of biodiversity within this genus.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.132433

Authors: Guillaume Martel, Alexandre Bout, Francesco Tortorici, Rachid Hamidi, Luciana Tavella, Maud Thomas

Abstract: We report the first detection of Trissolcus japonicus in southwestern France. A total of almost 3000 sentinel and 700 field-laid egg masses of Halyomorpha halys were exposed or collected in the administrative region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine in 2022 and 2023. A total of 12 and 44 specimens of T. japonicus emerged from one and two egg masses in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Morphologic analysis confirmed the identification of this egg parasitoid, while molecular analysis of COI matched the haplotype of the French population to the population of T. japonicus released in Italy. Trissolcus japonicus may have arrived in Nouvelle-Aquitaine from introduction pathways similary to T. mitsukurii, detected in 2020, although these pathways cannot be clearly defined. The co-occurrence of these two major parasitoids of BMSB should now be surveyed as possible competition can arise. In the frame of the biological control program currently running in France against BMSB, the use of one or two parasitoid species is also considered.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.129013

Authors: Chanda S. Bartholomew, Elizabeth A. Murray, Silas Bossert, Joel Gardner, Chris Looney

Abstract: Bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) are vital components of global ecosystems, yet knowledge of their distribution is limited in many regions. Washington state is located in an ecologically diverse part of North America and encompasses habitat types and plant communities known for high bee species richness. To establish a baseline for future studies on bee communities in the state, we used published and unpublished datasets to develop a preliminary annotated checklist of bees occurring in Washington state. We document, with high confidence, 565 species of bees in Washington and identify an additional 102 species likely to occur in the state. We anticipate future research survey efforts, such as the newly initiated Washington Bee Atlas, will discover several species that have the potential to occur in Washington and provide new data for 84 species which have not been recorded in more than 50 years.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.134123

Authors: Christopher K. Taylor

Abstract: Thirty-two family-group names and 161 genus-group names are listed for Scoliidae, including two fossil subfamilies and eight fossil genera, together with identification of type species and critiques of publication history. Campsomerinae was first made available in 1912. Contrary to previous usage, Argaman must be recognised as author of Bellimeris, Catharinimeris (not Cathimeris), Colpacampsomeris, Fasciomeris (not Fascimeris), Garantimeris, Lindenimeris, Phaleromeris (not Phalerimeris), Tetrasciton and Tristomeris. Tristomeris takes precedence as correct spelling over Tristimeris. A summary classification to genus level is provided for Scoliidae. Trielidina stat. nov. is recognised as a subtribe of Campsomerini.

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DOI: 10.3897/jhr.97.135648

Authors: Ekaterina V. Tselikh, Jean-Yves Rasplus, Jaehyeon Lee, Natalie Dale-Skey, Ankita Gupta, Deok-Seo Ku

Abstract: A new species of Merismomorpha Girault, 1913, M. ulleungensis Tselikh, Rasplus & Ku, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the Palaearctic region (Russian Far East and South Korea). An updated diagnosis of the genus is given, as well as a comparison to the closely related genus Pterosemopsis Girault, 1917.

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