Chalcidoidea

/kælsɪˈdɔɪdiə/ noun

Definition

A superfamily of parasitic and predatory wasps that includes many economically important insects used for biological pest control.

Etymology

From Chalcididae with the Latin superfamily suffix '-oidea.' This taxonomic classification groups related wasp families together, derived ultimately from Greek 'chalkos' (copper).

Kelly Says

Chalcidoidea wasps are the pest control industry's secret weapon—farmers release millions of them each year to fight crop-destroying insects without using pesticides. Some species can inject eggs into hosts invisible to the human eye.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.