Morphology and Development of the Immature Stages of Pediobius foveolatus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)1

Abstract

Immature examples of Pediobius foveolatus (J.C. Crawford) in Indiana were dissected from their host, Epilachna varivestis Muls. on snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), at 6-h intervals to provide descriptions and illustrations of the parasitoids' preimaginal morphology and development. Observations were made of living or freshly killed specimens with the aid of phase microscopy. The eggs and 3 larval stages are hymenopteriform. Parasitoid eggs did not enlarge after oviposition. The 1st and 3rd instars possess distinctive cephalic skeletons. The pupa is exarate. Descriptions and measurements of the various stages and structures are presented.