Parasitic Wasps : Encyrtid wasps
categories: Natural Enemies Parasitic Wasps
last review date: 2025-08-23 06:01
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
Encyrtids are a group of very small (1/50 to 1/16 inch) parasitoids, which are important in biological control in agriculture suppressing scale insects and mealybugs.
Other species attack beetles, flies, caterpillars, grasshoppers, true bugs and other wasps. There are more than 300 species of encyrtid wasps in the US and every garden likely harbors some populations of these ubiquitous pest control agents.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Aphids, mealybugs, caterpillars, true bugs, beetles, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, spiders, whiteflies, insect eggs
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.