''Spathius galinae'' is a

parasitoid In evolutionary ecology, a parasitoid is an organism that lives in close association with its host (biology), host at the host's expense, eventually resulting in the death of the host. Parasitoidism is one of six major evolutionarily stable str ...

of emerald ash borer. The known range of ''S. galinae'' extends from the Russian Far East to South Korea. It is currently approved for release in some areas of North America as part of a biological control program against emerald ash borer. Beginning in early spring, adults lay eggs on host larvae by drilling into the tree with their

ovipositor The ovipositor is a tube-like organ used by some animals, especially insects, for the laying of eggs. In insects, an ovipositor consists of a maximum of three pairs of appendages. The details and morphology of the ovipositor vary, but typical ...

to reach the larva underneath the bark. The eggs hatch and consume the host larva. ''S. galinae'' larvae and pupae develop within the host gallery and emerge in approximately 35 days. Two to three generations occur per year. Prior to winter, pre-pupae halt development to enter

diapause In animal dormancy, diapause is the delay in development in response to regular and recurring periods of adverse environmental conditions.Tauber, M.J., Tauber, C.A., Masaki, S. (1986) ''Seasonal Adaptations of Insects''. Oxford University Press It ...

and overwinter within the tree.

References

Braconidae Biological pest control wasps Insects described in 2012 {{hymenoptera-stub