Which family represents the extreme miniaturization found in wasps, measuring as little as 0.139 mm long?
Answer
Mymaridae (fairyflies)
The diversity in size within the wasp lineage is vast, ranging from massive species to some of the smallest known insects. The family Mymaridae, commonly known as fairyflies, holds the record for the smallest insects in this group, with individuals measuring only about 0.139 mm in length. This extreme smallness is remarkable considering the lineage also produced giants like the Asian giant hornet and large parasitoids, suggesting that selection has repeatedly favored vastly different body plans across different clades.
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