protohermesae species group

Within Ooencyrtus, females of the protohermesae species group are recognized by the combination of tridentate mandibles, sculpture of axilla and scutellum shallower than that of mesoscutum, and distinctly exserted ovipositor (except O. protohermesae). Further, males have a comparatively smaller mesopleuron so that unlike females the hind coxae touch the propodeum (cf. Figs 38, 39). Such sexual dimorphism is unique for Encyrtidae . Species of the group are also the only known parasitoids of Corydalidae .