Chrysopa excepta
Banks, 1911
Chrysopa excepta is a of green lacewing in the Chrysopidae, described by Banks in 1911. It belongs to a whose larvae are predatory and commonly known as 'aphid lions' due to their voracious consumption of soft-bodied insects. are recognized for their delicate appearance with long and translucent, veined wings. The species is recorded from North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chrysopa excepta: /ˈkrɪsəʊpə ɛkˈsɛptə/
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Identification
can be distinguished from similar lacewings by the combination of green body coloration, long , and the specific wing venation patterns characteristic of the Chrysopa. Definitive identification to level requires examination of genitalic structures and comparison with . Similar species in the genus Chrysopa may overlap in general appearance and require microscopic examination for separation.
Habitat
Associated with vegetation in agricultural and natural settings where soft-bodied prey such as aphids are abundant. are often found in flower beds and on plants where they may feed on pollen, honeydew, or seek oviposition sites.
Distribution
Recorded from North America. Specific state or provincial records are not documented in the provided sources.
Diet
Larvae are predatory on aphids, mites, , soft scales, and other soft-bodied insects. have been observed feeding on pollen, honeydew, and may consume small prey such as aphids.
Life Cycle
are laid on plant stems. Emerging larvae are predatory and develop through multiple instars before pupating. Larvae are known to exhibit .
Behavior
Larvae are active that impale prey with their and suck the body fluids. are relatively weak fliers that may disperse from harvested fields to surrounding crops.
Ecological Role
Serves as a agent of agricultural pests, particularly aphids. Functions as a in both larval and stages, contributing to natural pest suppression in cropping systems.
Human Relevance
Valued as a beneficial insect in programs. Gardeners and agricultural practitioners welcome its presence for control. Subject of research on patterns and effectiveness in .
Similar Taxa
- Chrysoperla spp.Similar general appearance as green lacewings, but distinguished by differences in wing venation, body proportions, and genitalic structures. Chrysoperla are frequently used in commercial and may overlap in use.
- Other Chrysopa speciesCongeneric share the green lacewing and require detailed examination of genitalia and specific wing characters for definitive separation.
More Details
Research context
Members of the Chrysopa, including C. excepta, have been studied in mark-capture experiments examining patterns following agricultural disturbances such as alfalfa harvest. These studies assess the relative dispersal ability of compared to their prey.
Taxonomic note
The was described by Nathan Banks in 1911. The Chrysopa is well-represented in North American collections, though species-level identification requires examination.