Pteromalidae are usually metallic chalcidoids of varying body size (from 1–48 mm long) and build (slender to quite robust), with the
tarsi of the fore and hind legs consisting of five
segments. They carry
antennae consisting of eight to thirteen segments (including up to 3 anelli); in fully winged forms have in the fore wing a
marginal vein that is at least several times longer than broad; very often have well-developed postmarginal and stigmal veins, although these are occasionally quite short; and nearly always have a distinct speculum. == Ecology ==