Lacewings

Definition

Members of the order Neuroptera (or suborder Hemerobiiformia in some classifications), characterized by delicate, highly-veined, often iridescent wings, soft bodies, and predatory or parasitoid larvae. Adults are typically crepuscular or nocturnal and possess prominent, golden or coppery compound eyes. The group includes green lacewings (Chrysopidae), brown lacewings (Hemerobiidae), and related families, many of which are valued biological control agents due to their voracious aphid-feeding larvae.

Etymology

From the lacy, reticulate venation of their membranous wings

Example

Green lacewings (Chrysoperla spp.) are commonly released in greenhouses and orchards to suppress aphid and mite populations; their larvae, known as aphid lions, can consume 100–600 prey items during development.

Synonyms

• Neuroptera (order, broader)

Related Terms

• Neuroptera
• Hemerobiiformia
• Antlions
• aphid lions
• Chrysopidae
• Hemerobiidae
• Biological control
• reticulate venation

Usage Notes

In strict taxonomic usage, lacewings refers to families within Hemerobiiformia (Chrysopidae, Hemerobiidae, and allies), excluding antlions and owlflies (Myrmeleontiformia). However, the term is sometimes used more loosely for all Neuroptera. The 2014 phylogenetic revision showed that traditional Hemerobiiformia is paraphyletic, complicating precise definition.