DESCRIPTION

Aphidius adults are small wasps, typically less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) long. During their larval stage, most Aphidius feed within the body of an aphid. Complete metamorphosis takes place within the host. The female wasp lays an egg in an aphid. When the egg hatches, the wasp larva feeds inside the aphid. As the larva matures the aphid is killed and becomes slightly puffy or mummified, usually turning tan or golden in color. The adult parasite chews its way out of the mummy leaving a hole. The genus Aphidius contains many species that provide biological control of aphids in agricultural crops, greenhouses, urban landscapes,and home gardens.