← Gallery II · The Orders
No. 11 · Holometabolous
Lacewings, Antlions, Owlflies
Neuroptera
~6,000
Described species
~17
Families
Introduction
Neuroptera larvae are voracious predators — antlion larvae build conical sand pits to ambush ants; lacewing larvae (known as aphid lions) are major biocontrol agents.
Field marks
Key ID traits.
Two pairs of equal-sized membranous wings with elaborate net-like venation. Predatory both as larvae and adults. Larvae often have huge sickle-shaped mandibles.
Etymology
Greek neuron 'nerve' + pteron 'wing'
Wings
Winged
Diet
Predator
Habitat
Terrestrial
Notable examples
Green lacewings, antlions, owlflies, mantidflies, spongillaflies.
Where to look