The Australian species of Polynema Haliday, s.l., (Hymenoptera : Mymaridae) described by AA Girault

Abstract

Augmented descriptions based on re-examination of the type specimens are given of 47 species and 'varieties' of Polynema Haliday, s.l., described from Australia (predominantly Queensland) by A. A. Girault between 1912 and 1938. Illustrations and measurements are provided of features useful in species separation, and a key to Australian species of Polynema given. Preliminary species groupings, based largely on features of forewings and antennae, are suggested, and affinities of some of the diverse Australian taxa currently included in Polynema briefly discussed. Lectotypes are designated as required and likely future synonymies indicated. All species described by Girault in Polynema are retained as distinct: condition of the material on which they were based does not permit adequate critical reappraisal of many forms.