Hymenoptera

Hymenoptera is a large order of insects, comprising the sawflies, wasps, bees, and ants. Over 150,000 living species of Hymenoptera have been described, in addition to over 2,000 extinct ones.

Overview

Members of the order Hymenoptera play a vital role in the ecosystem. They are often involved in pollination, and many species are notable for their stinging behavior. Hymenoptera also includes some of the most social of insects, such as ants and some bees and wasps.

Characteristics

Hymenoptera species share common characteristics such as a pair of large compound eyes, two pairs of strong, thin wings, and a mobile head. They have an exoskeleton made of chitin and their body is divided into three sections: the head, the thorax, and the abdomen.

Classification

The Hymenoptera order is divided into two suborders: Symphyta and Apocrita. The Symphyta are the sawflies and their relatives; the Apocrita include the wasps, bees, and ants.

Importance to Humans

Hymenoptera are of immense ecological and economic importance. Many species are beneficial as pollinators of crops and other plants, while others are valuable as biological control agents of pest insects.

See Also

• Insects
• Pollinators
• Ecology

References

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External Links

• Britannica: Hymenoptera
• National Geographic: Hymenoptera

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