Asobara

Asobara is a genus of parasitoid wasps belonging to the family Braconidae, subfamily Alysiinae. These wasps are koinobiont endoparasitoids, meaning they parasitize their host from within and allow the host to continue to live and grow, albeit in an altered state, before eventually killing it when the wasp is ready to emerge.

Characteristics and Identification:

Asobara wasps are typically small and slender, with a characteristic shape common among Alysiinae. Identification to the species level often requires detailed examination of morphological features, including wing venation, antennae segments, and the sculpture of the mesosoma (the middle part of the thorax). A distinguishing feature of the Alysiinae subfamily in general is that their mandibles often cross when closed.

Hosts and Parasitism:

Asobara species are known for parasitizing the larvae of various Drosophilidae flies, commonly known as fruit flies. Different Asobara species may specialize on different host species or even different developmental stages of the same host. The female wasp deposits an egg inside the host larva. As the wasp larva develops within the fly larva, it consumes the host tissues. The parasitoid larva eventually pupates inside the host puparium, and the adult wasp emerges from the puparium.

Distribution:

Asobara wasps are distributed globally, with various species found in different regions. Their distribution often coincides with the distribution of their fruit fly hosts.

Ecological Significance:

Asobara wasps play an important role in regulating populations of Drosophilidae flies. Their parasitoid behavior can be a significant factor in controlling fruit fly numbers in both natural and agricultural environments. They are also of interest to researchers studying parasitoid-host interactions, biological control, and evolutionary biology.

Notable Species:

• Asobara tabida: A well-studied species known for parasitizing Drosophila melanogaster and other Drosophila species. It is often used in laboratory studies of parasitoid behavior, host-parasite coevolution, and biological control potential.
• Asobara rufescens: Another commonly encountered species with a range of Drosophila hosts.