Construction of an electronic, multiple-entry identification key to two species groups of Signiphora (Hymenoptera: Signiphoridae)

Signiphoridae is a relatively small family of parasitic wasps in the superfamily Chalcidoidea. This family consists of about 75 world species with 21 located in the Nearctic region. We are currently establishing a multiple-entry, illustrated electronic key developed for the dipterophaga and coleoptrata species groups of Signiphora (Hymenoptera: Signiphoridae). These Signiphorids are small (about 1-2mm) and are often parasites or hyperparasites of mealybugs or flies that prey on mealybugs. There are about 11 described species and an estimate of 10 new species distributed in the Neotropical region. This key is developed through Lucid 3 using characters documented in MX, a content management system developed to store phylogenetic data. Multiple entry computer keys such as this one are an innovative alternative to the traditional dichotomous format that is often difficult to follow. Lucid allows the illustrations to be associated with character states, and the interface gives freedom to navigate through the key with ease, resulting in a user-friendly key that can be accessed and used by researchers from all over the world. The illustrations are produced with high quality, high-magnification images of standard views through image-stacking by Helicon Focus. Since it can be shared electronically, this key will be an important resource particularly for researchers in developing countries where this group is most diverse and literature is not immediately available.