The larvae of the majority are primary parasitoids on Hemiptera, though other hosts are attacked, and details of the life history can be variable (e.g., some attack eggs, some attack larvae, others are hyperparasites, and some Encyrtidae develop as parasitoids of ticks). They are found throughout the world in virtually all habitats, and are extremely important as biological control agents.
The majority of the larvae are parasitic wasps that target Hemiptera insects, though they can attack other hosts. The life cycle of these wasps varies depending on the specific species, with some attacking eggs, others larvae, and some even parasitizing ticks. They are found globally in diverse environments and play a crucial role as biological pest control agents.