Description

• Alysiini is a tribe of parasitoid wasps in the family Braconidae, subfamily Alysiinae. These wasps are generally small and slender, often dark brown or black, with long antennae and delicate, transparent wings. A distinctive feature of many members is their exodont mandibles, which project outward rather than meeting in the usual way. These specialised mouthparts help adults emerge from their host's puparium.

Range

• Alysiini occurs worldwide, with representatives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. Members of this tribe are found in Mexico, including Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Alysiini wasps occur in a variety of terrestrial habitats, including forests, scrublands, grasslands, gardens, and agricultural areas. Adults may be found searching vegetation or visiting flowers, while their immature stages develop in insect hosts, often fly larvae in moist organic material or decaying vegetation.

Diet

• Adult Alysiini commonly feed on nectar, honeydew, and other sugary resources. Their larvae are parasitoids, developing inside fly larvae and eventually killing their hosts. Different species specialise in different groups of flies, including those associated with decaying organic matter, fungi, and other moist habitats.