Minibeast Profiles: Lacewings, Dobsonflies, and Antlions
by Gary A. Dunn, M.S., F.R.E.S., Director of Education
The lacewings, dobsonflies, and antlions are part of a diverse group of insects (order Neuroptera) that are characterized by distinct membranous wings and complete metamorphosis.
The lacewings are suitably named - they have delicate, lace-like wings. The body is generally greenish, yellowish. or brownish, and many species have beautiful golden eyes. Both larval and adult lacewings are predators, and are fond of aphids, scales, and other small homopteran insects.
A green lacewing, Chrysopa sp.
Dobsonflies are large grayish or brownish insects, and males may measure more than 3" in length. The males are easily distinguished from the females by their long, sickle-shaped mandibles. Since the larvae of dobsonflies (known as hellgrammites) are aquatic, the adults are most frequently encountered in areas near streams.
One of the most interesting neuropterans is the antlion. The larva of the antlion, also known as a doodlebug, is found in many parts of the United States and Canada. The antlion larva digs itself a cone-shaped pit in sandy soil. It positions itself at the bottom of the pit, with its body buried in the sand (only the sharp mandibles are generally visible). The antlion waits patiently for careless insects (typically ants) to stumble and slide into the pit where it is immediately seized by powerful jaws. The antlion larva's jaws are hollow and sickle-shaped and are used to suck out the victim's body fluids. When the feeding is finished the antlion tosses the empty carcass up out of the pit. The adult antlions resemble slow-flying damselflies, but can easily be distinguished by their prominent knobbed antennae. The adults are frequently seen in areas with sandy soils - prime habitat for the young antlions.
| This educational resource was prepared by the Young Entomologists Society, 6907 West Grand River Ave., Lansing MI 48906-9131, phone/fax 517-886-0630, e-mail YESbugs@aol.com. Support minibeast youth education - join Y.E.S. today! |