Chalcoidea

The Chalcidoidea are a superfamily of small, solitary wasps, with over 22,000 described species and potentially many more yet to be discovered. These insects, commonly known as chalcid wasps, are characterized by their typically small size, often around 2 to 3 mm, though some can be larger. They possess a body structure typical of insects, with a head, thorax, abdomen, six legs, and an exoskeleton.1

Most chalcid wasps are parasitoids, meaning their larvae feed on or within other arthropods, including insects, spiders, and mites. This parasitic behavior can be beneficial to humans, as some species target agricultural pests. A notable exception is the fig wasp, which plays a crucial role in pollinating fig trees. The Chalcidoidea are divided into approximately 19 families, each with unique characteristics and ecological roles.1