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Terebra steering in chalcidoid wasps.

Benjamin Eggs1, Stefan Fischer2,3, Michael Csader2,4

  • 1Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. benjamin.eggs@uni-tuebingen.de.

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Summary

Chalcidoid wasps steer their ovipositors using a unique musculoskeletal system, enabling precise host-seeking behaviors. This key innovation likely fueled the evolutionary success and diversification of over 500,000 wasp species.

Keywords:
ChalcidoideaFunctional morphologyHymenopteraOvipositorParasitoidPteromalidae

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Area of Science:

  • Entomology
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Biomechanics

Background:

  • Chalcidoid wasps possess a terebra (ovipositor shaft) capable of complex steering movements.
  • The mechanisms behind this active terebral steering, despite lacking intrinsic musculature, were not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the musculoskeletal mechanisms enabling terebral steering in the ectoparasitoid wasp Lariophagus distinguendus.
  • To analyze the function of the ovipositor system during oviposition in this species.

Main Methods:

  • Combined microscopy, microtomography, and videography to analyze the ovipositor system.
  • Detailed examination of valvulae, valvifers, and associated musculature.
  • Observation of terebral employment during oviposition.

Main Results:

  • Identified nine pairs of muscles actuating ovipositor movements, including three newly described muscles in chalcidoids.
  • Demonstrated that specific muscles enable lateral bending and rotation of the terebra.
  • Showcased how the terebra's ability to bend and rotate facilitates host detection in concealed locations.

Conclusions:

  • The steerable terebra is a crucial adaptation for parasitoid wasps, enhancing host-finding success.
  • This evolved capability likely contributed significantly to the diversification and evolutionary success of the Chalcidoidea superfamily.