Structure and sensory equipment of the ovipositor of Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae).

The microsculpture of various structures of the ovipositor of Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is described from scanning and transmission electron microscopy. These include: the ovipositor egg canal, valvillus, seal of the first valvulae, interlocking mechanism (olistheter) connecting the first and second valvulae, an olistheter-like interlocking mechanism connecting the two pieces of the first valvulae, annulation, microtrichia of the third valvulae, and the ovipositor sensory equipment. Better understanding of the microsculpture of these components may make their roles in stinging, oviposition, and the host selection process more clear.