Cynipidae

/sɪˈnɪpɪdeɪ/ noun

Definition

The family of gall wasps, small insects whose larvae induce plants to grow abnormal tumorous structures called galls where the wasp develops.

Etymology

From the genus 'Cynips' (from Greek 'kynips,' literally 'dog-wasp') with the Latin family suffix '-idae', established in 19th-century entomological taxonomy.

Kelly Says

This family of wasps is a stunning example of animal mind-control—the wasp larvae chemically trick the plant into building a protective nursery room, one of nature's most sophisticated manipulations.

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