Gall Wasps

Family Cynipoidea

Diplolepis spinosa (Family Cynipidae). Photo:Stephanie Boucher

This superfamily includes parasitic and phytophagous species. Phytophagous larvae often cause galls in plants where they develop and feed. Most species are black, with a shiny abdomen that is flattened from side to side. The wing venation is reduced. Unlike many similar small Hymenoptera, the antennae are not elbowed.