Megaphragma

Megaphragma is a genus of tiny wasps in the family Trichogrammatidae. It is known from all biogeographic regions. With adult body lengths under 0.3 mm, the fifteen species in this genus are among the smallest known insects (Burks 1979, Pinto & Viggiani 2004). Megaphragma are parasitoids of the eggs of thrips (Thysanoptera) (Doutt & Viggiani 1968, Lin 1994). Since many thrips feed on plants with commercial value, these wasps are generally considered beneficial insects from an economic perspective (Dozier 1932, Plant Pest Control Division ARS USDA 1960). Member of the genus Megaphragma are distinguished by their minute body size (generally in the 170-250 μm range), extremely narrow, strap-like, sparsely setose fore wings with very long fringe setae, antennae with three or fewer postanellar segments, and absence of metasomal spiracles (Doutt & Viggiani 1968, Pinto 2006, Pinto & Viggiani 2004, Timberlake 1924).

Megaphragma is a wasp genus in the family Trichogrammatidae. It contains two of the four smallest known insects, Megaphragma caribea (170 μm) and Megaphragma mymaripenne (200 μm).