Mymaridae

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Mymaridae (fairyflies; suborder Apocrita, superfamily Chalcidoidea) Family of Hymenoptera, which are perhaps noteworthy for being among the smallest known insects, sometimes being less than 0.25 mm long. Adults are usually blackish or black and yellow, with long, thin legs and antennae, and very narrow, hair-fringed wings. The hind wing is very narrow or nearly linear, and both fore and hind wings have a characteristic, highly reduced venation. The ovipositor is sometimes very long and brought forward in a loop beneath the thorax. All members of the family are egg parasites of various insects. Their common name refers to their small size, delicate shape, and tiny, hair-fringed wings.