A Synopsis of Knowledge of the Rhopalosomatidae (Hymenoptera) in Brazil: an Annotated Checklist of the Family in the Country, with a Revised Key to the Brazilian Genera.

Abstract

This study is focused on the cricket leeches, Rhopalosomatidae, a family that is only poorly represented in entomological collections in Brazil. We provided a revised and updated key to the genera occurring in Brazil with the major traits of genera illustrated through high-resolution photomicrography. Also, we provided a synopsis of genera, a list of the species currently recorded from Brazil, the first country records for Rhopalosoma minus Townes, 1977 and Rhopalosoma breelandi Townes, 1977, which increases the diversity of these wasps in the country. Additionally, we provided information and a brief discussion about collection methods, flotation, and abundance of specimens collected. Maps with the geographical distribution of the studied species based on the previous and new records are also provided.