Revision of the Genus Laelius (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea, Bethylidae) from China

TL;DR

This paper revises the genus Laelius in China, describing a new species and updating records for potential biocontrol agents of pest beetles.

Contribution

The first revision of the genus Laelius in China, including a new species and three new records supported by morphological and molecular data.

Findings

Six Laelius species are recognized in China, including one new species and three new records.

Morphological and DNA barcoding analyses were used to delimit species in the genus.

A key to identify Chinese Laelius species is provided.

Abstract

The cosmopolitan genus Laelius Ashmead belongs to the subfamily Epyrinae and includes 68 valid species. Members of Laelius mainly attack larvae of larder beetles (Coleoptera, Dermestidae), which are commonly known as pests of stored products. The taxonomic study of Laelius in China is far from enough, with only two species recorded. Taking account of the promising biocontrol agents for the pests of forest and stored products, the Chinese species of Laelius are revised in this study. Morphological characters and DNA barcoding with COI sequences are used for species delimitation. A new species, Laelius longus sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Three new records from China are updated.

The genus Laelius from China is revised for the first time and six species are recognized, including one new species as well as three new records. The new species, Laelius longus sp. nov., which is supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, is described and illustrated. Three new records, L. naniwaensis, L. nigrofemoratus, and L. yamatonis, are illustrated. A key to the Chinese species of Laelius is provided.

Figures