New Alien-like Wasp Discovered

A new discovery, perhaps one Sigourney Weaver would not want to hear about, has been made in Australia.

-Photo courtesy from movie 'Alien'

Ms. Erinn Fagan-Jeffries has identified three new species from the Dolichogenidea genus , one of which has been named after the creature from the movie 'Alien', Dolichogenidea xenomorph. This particular species injects their eggs into Antipterna euanthes (caterpillars) where the larvae feed on the caterpillar and emerge once mature. Unfortunately, the wasps' life-cycle is not as 'exciting' as the xenomorph creatures from 'Alien', but it is said parasitoid wasps were the inspiration for the creature. Still anxiously awaiting on a 'face-hugger' to be discovered though.

The study was focused on describing the three new species, D. finchi, D. mediocaudata, and D. xenomorph; however, it was a part of a larger study that involved collecting numerous parasitic wasps all over Australia. In particular, D. xenomorph measures in at a formidable 5 mm in length, appears smooth, shiny, and dark in appearance with a significantly long ovipositor. Parasitoid wasps may appear to sound frightening to most people, but they are very important in the regulation of arthropod populations. Some parasitoids are being used as biocontrol for insect pests all around the world. This area is likely to increase thanks to researchers like Erinn Fagan-Jeffries and others.

-Photo courtesy of Erinn Fagan-Jeffries et al.