Numbers
7 subfamilies as follows: Aphelininae (11/299), Azotinae (1/91), Calesinae (1/3), Coccophaginae (13/699), Eriaphytinae (1/2), Eriaporinae (5/22), Eretmocerinae (1/52). The number of genera and species are in parentheses.
Size
Small size (1 mm or less).
Identification
Generally 5 segmented tarsi (thus different from the 4 segmented tarsi of Eulophidae except that some aphelinids have 4 segmented tarsi), and antennae with eight or less segments (thus different from the usually 11-segmented antennae of Encyrtidae), according to
USDA.
Forewing venation is distinctive.
Other features include: large eyes, wings with setal tracts, long marginal vein, yellowish-brown coloration, and thorax and abdomen broadly joined.
Remarks
The taxonomy of this family is in a state of flux.
Related to Encyrtidae, sharing their stout outline and the big apical spur on tibia II (a jumping device).
