An introduction to the Ichneumonidae of Australia

Illustrated keys are given to the 22 subfamilies and 215 genera of ichneumonids occurring in Australia. Four subfamilies (Lycorininae, Orthocentrinae, Oxytorinae and Phrudinae) are newly recorded from the continent as are six tribes, 80 genera and subgenera and 11 species. One new tribe, the Ankylophonini, is proposed in the Tryphoninae and 44 genera and 55 species are described as new. Eleven new combinations and 13 new synonyms. are proposed. The name Delopia Cameron is re-instated for the large genus previously known as Dusona Cameron, and Dusona is limited to a small New Zealand species-group. One replacement name for a junior homonym is proposed. For each subfamily a diagnosis is given together with brief distributional and biological notes. Under each genus is listed a full synonymy, brief diagnosis (which may be expanded if the generic limits have been altered), list of Australian species and the known hosts. Introductory sections include notes on nomenclature, terminology and relationships, an extensive account of ichneumonid biology, a history of ichneumonid work in Australia and an account of the relationships and characteristics of the Australian fauna. The work is completed by a check-list of Australian ichneumonids, an extensive bibliography and indexes to both ichneumonids and their hosts.