A proctotrupid wasp in Lebanese Lower Cretaceous amber (Hymenoptera: Proctotrupidae)

Abstract

The first fossil proctotrupid wasp in Lower Cretaceous Lebanese amber is described and figured. Astarteserphus grimaldii gen. et sp. nov. is distinguished from all other living and fossil Proctotrupidae and placed into its own subfamily, Astarteserphinae subfam. nov. A key is presented to the living and fossil subfamilies and tribes of Proctotrupidae, and a brief discussion is provided on the unique features and diminutive size of the fossil.