Ovipositor mechanics of the braconine wasp genus Zaglyptogastra and the ichneumonid genus Pristomerus

Abstract

The multiply-arched, apical quarter to half of the ovipositors of Zaglyptogastra species are capable of flexing ventrally through up to 180°. Flexion is achieved by ventral protrusion of the lower ovipositor valves relative to the upper one, an action which juxtaposes swollen lower valve sections with weak concave narrowings of the upper valve. The structural modifications associated with this flexion mechanism are described and similar ovipositor features are illustrated for the cremastine ichneumonid genus Pristomerus.

Keywords :

• Hymenoptera
• Braconidae
• Zaglyptogastra
• Ichneumonidae
• Pristomerus
• ovipositor
• morphology