Cynipoidea

The superfamily Cynipoidea is a group of hymenopterous insects within the suborder Clistogastra. These insects are characterized by greatly reduced wing venation and a coiled, retractable ovipositor. This superfamily includes the gall wasps (family Cynipidae) and several families of parasites that target other insects.1

Gall wasps are known for their ability to induce the formation of galls, which are tissue swellings, on plants. While most gall wasps are not of significant economic importance, some species' galls have been used for their tannic acid content or in the production of inks and dyes. Reproduction in many gall wasp species occurs through parthenogenesis, where females develop from unfertilized eggs.2

Some members of the Cynipoidea superfamily, like cuckoo wasps (family Chrysididae), are brood parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests of other solitary wasps and bees, with the cuckoo wasp larva consuming the host larva or its food supply.3