Order Nueroptera: Lacewings, dobsonflies, antlions, alderflies

Neuroptera as a group contains insects that feed on other insects, at least during part of their life cycles, so they are generally regarded as beneficial. The name Neuroptera means 'nerve winged', and is derived from the many veins and closed cells in the wings. This groups has 4 wings, complete metamorphosis, and chewing mouthparts.

The example above is a green lacewing larva feeding on aphids and the adult feeding on pollen and nectar. Note the number of veins and closed cells in the wings of the adult.

Kentucky Examples of the Order Neuroptera:

This is an antlion. They make conical pits in dry, dusty places such in barns and tool sheds. They wait at the bottom of the pit, with their mandibles extended, for insect prey to fall into the trap.

This is the largest Neuropteran in Kentucky, the dobsonfly. The female pictured above has very powerful and sharp mandibles that she readily uses for protection. Males have long extended mandibles that are nearly half the length of their body. Dobsonflies are common around streams and creeks as the larvae are aquatic. The larvae are called hellgrammites and are good bait for trout fishing. Notice the numerous veins in the wings that is a characteristic with this order.

Scorpionflies are common throughout much of the early summer in Kentucky. They get their name from the appearance of the male's abdomen, which is curled like that of a scorpion. However, unlike the end of a scorpion's tail, the male has no stinger.

Green lacewings as a group are important predators of aphids and other insects. The larvae are predaceous, while many of the adults are honeydew and nectar feeders. Adults of a few species are predators. Lacewings are recognized by their color, delicate appearance, and golden eyes. There are a few species that are commercially available for biological control. The eggs are characteristic and laid on the end of 1/2 inch long hair-like stalks.

Brown lacewings are also important predators feeding on various other insects. The larva is unusual in that it attachs bits of trash to its back for camouflage as it moves in search of prey.

The final example is that of an alderfly. These are common near some streams and ponds.

Updated November 2005