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Glite Dictionary
Chalcididae

Chalcididae

9.9
A family of very small wasps that lay eggs in other insects to control pests
  • noun
  • /ˌkæl.sɪˈdɪ.di/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Chalcididae
  • Many species in the Chalcididae family are used as natural enemies of agricultural pests.

Examples

  • The Chalcididae are known for their metallic coloration and small size.

  • Researchers discovered a new member of the Chalcididae in the tropical rainforest.

  • The Chalcididae family includes many species that are beneficial for agriculture.

  • Did you know that Chalcididae can help control pest populations?

  • Many species in the Chalcididae family serve as natural enemies of crop pests, helping to maintain balance in agriculture.

  • Researchers recently found a new Chalcididae species in the rainforest, which could aid in pest management efforts.

  • The Chalcididae are tiny wasps known for their role in biological control, targeting harmful insects that damage crops.

Synonyms

family Chalcididae
vsChalcididae
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of very small wasps that lay eggs in other insects

focuses more on their role in biological control rather than taxonomic placement
Chalcidae
vsChalcididae
  • Specialized
9.9

Small wasps that lay their eggs in other insects and help control pests

stresses their role in biological control not merely their small size

Surface Forms

Chalcididae singular
Chalcididae plural

Morphology

Chalcididae = chalcid (opaque) = chalcid + idae

The suffix '-idae' is a specialized taxonomic ending and not transparent to general learners, so the family meaning is not derivable by B1 speakers.

Etymology

Chalcididae comes from the Greek root chalkos meaning 'copper', because many of these tiny parasitic wasps have a shiny, metal-like color. The ending -idae marks an animal 'family', so the name points to a family of small, often coppery wasps that help control crop and garden pests.