Meleoma furcata

(Banks, 1911)

Meleoma furcata is a of green lacewing in the Chrysopidae, first described by Banks in 1911 under the name Chrysopa furcata. The species belongs to the Meleoma, a group of lacewings distinguished from the more commonly known Chrysoperla by subtle morphological differences. Records indicate its presence in North America and Middle America, though detailed biological information remains sparse. Like other chrysopids, it is presumed to be predatory in both larval and stages.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Meleoma furcata: /mɛˈleɪ.oʊ.mə fɜrˈkeɪ.tə/

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Identification

Meleoma are distinguished from the closely related and more abundant Chrysoperla by characters of the wing venation and genitalia, though specific diagnostic features for M. furcata require examination of preserved specimens. The original description by Banks (1911) noted the forked nature of certain structures, reflected in the species epithet "furcata." Accurate identification to species level typically requires microscopic examination of male genitalia.

Distribution

Recorded from North America and Middle America. Specific locality details are limited in available sources.

Similar Taxa

ChrysoperlaThe most commonly encountered green lacewings; Meleoma are less abundant and require careful examination to distinguish, particularly of wing venation and male genitalia.

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The was originally described as Chrysopa furcata by Nathan Banks in 1911 and later transferred to the Meleoma. The genus Meleoma was established to accommodate species previously placed in Chrysopa that exhibit distinct morphological characteristics, though the group has received less taxonomic attention than Chrysoperla.