Background Information

Four of my Independent Study students are interested in examining the host species range of Melittobia digitata , a parasitoid wasp sold commercially under the trade name "WOWBugs". The biology of the species is well known. In fact, a website entitled "Welcome to WOWBugs!" has a massive amount of information regarding this species. Student participating in the Independent Study class are familiar with the web site and have experience in culturing the species on blowfly larvae. The idea came about as a result of students reading about similar activities in WOWBugs: New Life for Life Science and a recent article in the quarterly WOWBugs Bulletin regarding culturing the species on mealworm (Tenebrio molitor ) pupae.

The students are interested in determining if waxworm larvae can be used as a host for culture of Melittobia . Their experimental protocol is outlined in an online document entitled "The Effect of Host Variation on Adult Female Melittobia digitata Wing Size". Assuming production of Melittobia offspring from the waxworms and knowing that the waxworms differ somewhat chemically from the blowfly larvae, the students are interested in determining whether the resulting offspring will differ in any physical characteristics or body structure proportions. Taking advantage of the Bugscope measuring capability, the students are interested in measuring and comparing a number of proportions outlined in the their protocol.

Specimens To Be Collected and Viewed

Representative populations of Melittobia raised on blowfly pupae and waxworm larvae.

Follow-Up Activities and Discussion After Viewing Session

Once we have examined the specimens and have performed the required measurement, students will analyze their data and determine whether their hypothesis was supported.

Evaluation

The group will collectively write and submit a write-up of the experiment, including the Bugscope activity, using the following format: Title, Purpose, Procedure, Data (including representative captured images and data tables) and Conclusion. This write-up will be presented in the form of a web document and posted on the WWW.