Torymus microstigma

This wasp has been recorded in bedeguar galls but it is very rare in these. The first record in Europe was by Toddy Cooper in 2005 in Beer, Devon. This was followed a year later in Somerset near Taunton.

The female measures 2.1-3.6mm, averaging at 3.1mm in length, excluding the ovipositor.
The wasp has a brilliant metallic green body with the mesepimeron being green in colour, with or without some bronze below. The legs are metallic and pale yellow with 5 tarsal segments. The front coxae is all metallic green and the hind coxae being at least twice the length of the middle coxae. The wings are clear with the stigmal vien shorter than the post stigmal vein. The antennae are dark with 7 funicular segments. The gaster (abdomen) is bright metallic green with bronze tints. The ovipositor sheaths are comparatively short compared to other torymids at about 45% of body length.

The male measures 1.8-2.9mm averaging at about 2.3mm
The wasp has a dark metallic green head and thorax with the mesepimeron being green, with or without some bronze below. The gaster (abdomen) is darker green brown. The legs are brown and pale with 5 tarsal segments. The front coxae are all metallic green and the hind coxae being at least twice the length of the middle coxae. The wings are clear with the stigmal vein shorter than the post stigmal vein. The antennae are thick and dark with 7 funicular segments.

More detailed descriptions and identification keys are available from Robin Williams at the British Plant Gall Society.

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