vayda on Nostr: The Acmopolynema hervali is a species of parasitic wasp, one among thousands of ...
The Acmopolynema hervali is a species of parasitic wasp, one among thousands of species of such insects – there are 6,000 species in the UK alone.
During its short lifespan, the Acmopolynema hervali wasps perform a service that is very beneficial to farmers.
These parasites attack the egg, larva and pupa of insects that are harmful to crops and keep their populations under control.
As an example, the parasitic wasps bore into the skin of the caterpillar as soon as it is hatched, laying eggs under their skin. The host is kept alive, but the parasitic wasp keeps drawing nutrients as the caterpillar eats.
When it reaches a certain stage of growth, the parasites will release chemicals that paralyze the caterpillar, then use its saw-like teeth to bore through the skin. The wounded caterpillar may perish, or never emerge into the adult insect.
During its short lifespan, the Acmopolynema hervali wasps perform a service that is very beneficial to farmers.
These parasites attack the egg, larva and pupa of insects that are harmful to crops and keep their populations under control.
As an example, the parasitic wasps bore into the skin of the caterpillar as soon as it is hatched, laying eggs under their skin. The host is kept alive, but the parasitic wasp keeps drawing nutrients as the caterpillar eats.
When it reaches a certain stage of growth, the parasites will release chemicals that paralyze the caterpillar, then use its saw-like teeth to bore through the skin. The wounded caterpillar may perish, or never emerge into the adult insect.