Aphelinus

/æfəˈlaɪnəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of small parasitic wasps that prey on aphids and are used in biological pest control.

Etymology

From Greek aphis (louse/aphid) + -inus (diminutive suffix), referring to wasps that target aphids. The Latin scientific name was created to classify these beneficial insects.

Kelly Says

These tiny wasps are invisible heroes in gardens—one Aphelinus wasp can parasitize hundreds of aphids in its lifetime, making them invaluable for organic farming without any chemicals.

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