Subfamily Agathidinae
Genus Bassus
about 3/8 inch (not including antennae or ovipositor)
This tiny female Braconid Wasp, probably in the genus Bassus, was a beautiful insect. I have seen them before
on Antelope Island but because they're so small, it's hard to get a good picture of them. This one stuck around
long enough for me to get a few good shots. Notice the long stinger-like ovipositor. © Carol Davis 10-10, 2010
They use the ovipositor, which you can see curled underneath the wasp here, to deposit eggs in their prey which may
include moth larvae that cause destruction to plants. The head has a goat-like appearance. © Carol Davis 10-10, 2010
To look at this tiny, beautiful wasp, you would never think that it could harm anything. It is considered
a very beneficial insect and has been used in biological control. © Carol Davis 10-10, 2010
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