Aphidius Wasp

Aphidius spp.

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+5 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

agricultural cropsgardensgreenhouseslandscapes

Taxonomic Group

Wasp

Order

Hymenoptera

Family

Aphidiidae

Lifecycle

Aphidius wasps undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. An adult female can lay up to 300 eggs in her lifetime, depositing one egg per aphid. The larva hatches inside the aphid and feeds on its internal tissues. After 7-10 days, the wasp larva kills the aphid, causing it to become a hardened, mummified shell, which is typically golden or brown. The wasp then pupates within the aphid mummy. The adult wasp emerges by chewing a circular hole in the back of the mummy. The entire life cycle from egg to adult takes about two weeks at 70°F (21°C).

Overwintering Strategy

Aphidius wasps overwinter as pupae inside the mummified bodies of aphids. These diapausing mummies have greater cold hardiness than non-diapausing mummies, allowing them to survive the winter and emerge as adults in the spring.

Native Range

The native range of Aphidius wasps varies by species. For example, Aphidius colemani is native to North America, while other species are native to Europe or other regions. They are now widely distributed globally for biological control purposes.

Attracted By

flowering insectary plantsnectarhoneydewyellow color

Repelled By

There is no specific information on plants or substances that repel Aphidius wasps. Howeversince they are attracted to the color yellowit is recommended to avoid using yellow sticky traps in areas where these wasps are activeas the traps will capture and kill them.

Companion Planting

Planting flowering insectary plants that provide nectar for adult parasitoids is the best way to attract and support Aphidius wasps. Plants in the carrot family (Apiaceae) like dill, fennel, and cilantro, as well as composite flowers like daisies and yarrow, are excellent choices. These plants provide a food source for the adult wasps, encouraging them to stay in the garden and parasitize aphids.