The social insects -- bees, wasps, ants, termites -- are frequently found trapped in amber resins, often in large groups or clusters. Although this specimen in Dominican amber closely resembles a winged ant at first look, it is in fact a very small parasitic wasp (probably Family Braconidae). The long, threadlike antennae and the lack of an obvious costal cell on the front wing margin are among characteristic features that quickly distinguish braconid wasps from winged ants.

Parasitic wasps prey upon other insect species or spiders, depositing their eggs in their living victims. Upon hatching, the parasitic larval wasps feed upon their unwilling hosts. It is important to note that complex host- parasite relationships between various insect groups were already well-developed when the ancient insects inhabited the amber forests of the world.

[Approximate magnification x10]

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