Numbers
2200 North American species according to
(1)Size
Most are very small, 2 to 3 mm. long. Some less than 0.5 mm. The bigger ones, 10 to 15 mm.
Identification
Antennae usually elbowed, never more than 13 segments.
Most are dark colored, some metallic green or blue. Clear winged.
They generally hold their wings flat over the abdomen.
Habitat
Very common, found in a variety of habitats, mostly on flowers and foliage.
Life Cycle
Most are parasites of other insects, mostly of eggs or larvae.
Remarks
They are used as pest controls because they parasitize mainly the orders that contain many common pests: Lepidoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera and Homoptera.
The males of many species produce sounds.
Internet References
Chalcidoidea In Catalan, with excellent pictures.
