Studies on systematics and biology of Aphidiinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae)

In 1978 the author started his investigation into the systematics, biology and distribution of the Aphidiinae in Sweden. Colonies of various aphid species were reared in vials. Approximately 2000 of such rearings were undertaken and all emerging insects were counted and identified. In order to elucidate the ecological relationships between aphids, parasitoids, hyperparasitoids, and predators, all data from the rearings will be computerized. A preliminary sketch of the relationships (not based on a computer analysis) is presented. Hitherto, about 100 species of Aphidiinae have been found in Sweden. The usefulness of utilizing host data in Aphidiinae systematics is discussed.