Differentiation of the species of Urolepis (Hymenoptera : Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae), potential biocontrol agents of filth flies (Diptera : Muscidae)

The world species of Urolepis Walker are reviewed and a key is given to dif ferentiate females of Urolepis singularis (Ashmead) and males and females o f Urolepis maritima (Walker) and Urolepis rufipes (Ashmead). Lectotypes are designated for U. rufipes and U. singularis. Biological literature relatin g to parasitism of house flies and stable flies by U. maritima and U. rufip es is summarized, and known hosts of the three species and collection recor ds within the Nearctic region are given. Urolepis,maritima is recorded for the first time from the Nearctic region, and U. rufipes is confirmed from n orthern Europe (Denmark and Germany).