First record of Bethylidae (Hymenoptera) from Malta

Abstract

Bethylidae are true aculeates, having a retractable sting with venom that temporarily immobilizes the larvae of their host. Similar to the closely related cuckoo wasps (Chrysididae), females track down a concealed larva, place one or more eggs on it, and continue their search. No nests are built and hosts are rarely transported to a safer place. Bethylid females usually place four eggs on the back of a host larva. The wasp larvae are ectoparasitoids, feeding on haemolymph with only their mouthparts inserted in the body of the host, until they have reached the required size to pupate. They than quickly consume the remaining internals of the host larva and start spinning a cocoon.