The wedge-shaped beetles (Rhipiphoridae) are small to medium-sized beetles. Their development cycle is characterized as hypermetamorphosis (similar to the blister beetles). The larvae develop as parasites in the larvae of other insects, like wasps or beetles. The first instars are endoparasites and the last ones ectoparasites. Adults are often found on flowers where females lay their eggs. Worldwide approx. 450 species have been described, thereof only three from Germany.