The life history and larval morphology of Aperilampus (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Philomidinae), with a discussion of the phylogenetic affinities of the Philomidinae

Abstract. The host association and larval morphology of Aperilampus (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Philomidinae) are documented for the first time based on specimens collected during the excavation of ground‐nesting bee nests in South Africa. Aperilampus varians Strand is a primary parasite of the pupa of Halictus (Seladonia) africanus Friese (Hymenoptera: Halictidae). The first and final‐instar larvae are described and illustrated, and notes are provided on the behaviour of the first‐instar larva. The first‐instar larva is a planidium and synapomorphies are documented between the first‐instar larva of Aperilampus and the planidia of Chrysolampinae, Perilampidae and Eucharitidae.