Lichen-carrying Green Lacewing
Leucochrysa pavida
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Neuroptera
- Suborder: Hemerobiiformia
- Family: Chrysopidae
- Subfamily: Chrysopinae
- Tribe: Leucochrysini
- Genus: Leucochrysa
- Species: pavida
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Leucochrysa pavida: /ˈlɛkəˌkraɪsə ˈpævɪdə/
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Summary
Leucochrysa pavida, commonly known as the Lichen-carrying Green Lacewing, is a species distinguished by its distinctive colorational traits and behaviors of its larval stage, particularly their use of lichen for camouflage. It is native to Central and North America and is part of the Chrysopinae subfamily in the Chrysopidae family.
Physical Characteristics
Adults have long antennae, a golden head, red stripes on the antennal scapes and gena, dark stripes on the sides of the prothorax, and conspicuously darkened pterostigmas. The body lacks spots and the vertex of the head is unmarked.
Identification Tips
To differentiate from other members of its genus, look for the absence of spots on the body and the unique facial markings of the larvae, particularly the mark between the mandibles which is absent in some similar species like Ceraeochrysa.
Habitat
Leucochrysa pavida is typically found in various habitats across Central and North America.
Distribution
Recorded in Indiana, North Carolina, Florida, and Texas.
Diet
The adults primarily feed on aphids and other small insects, while larvae are known to carry lichens, which they may use for camouflage and predation.
Life Cycle
The life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, typical of lacewings.
Reproduction
Details on specific reproductive habits are not provided.
Predators
Specific predators are not mentioned; however, lacewings generally face predation from birds and other insectivorous organisms.
Ecosystem Role
Leucochrysa pavida plays a role in pest control by feeding on aphids and other small pests in its ecosystem.
Collecting Methods
- Light traps
- Field sweeping
- Hand collection
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol immersion
- Pinning
- Drying
Similar Taxa
Tags
- lacewing
- Chrysopidae
- predator
- pest control
- larvae