Hemerobiidae

Brown Lacewings

Subfamily Guides

is a of Neuropteran insects comprising approximately 500 in 28 , commonly known as brown lacewings. are typically yellow to dark brown in coloration, with some species exhibiting green hues. They are small insects, with most species having forewings 4–10 mm in length, though some reach up to 18 mm. Both larvae and adults are predatory, feeding primarily on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. The family is distinguished from the similar Chrysopidae (green lacewings) by wing venation patterns, specifically the presence of numerous long with two or more radial sectors and forked costal cross veins. Some species have been employed as agents, including Micromus tasmaniae which is commercially bred for pest management.

Sympherobius barberi by no rights reserved, uploaded by Jesse Rorabaugh. Used under a CC0 license.

Hemerobius bistrigatus by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hemerobiidae: /hɛmɛroʊbiˈaɪədiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from Chrysopidae (green lacewings) by wing venation: hemerobiids possess numerous long with two or more radial sectors and forked costal cross veins, whereas chrysopids have simpler venation. are usually brown or yellow rather than green. Larvae are less hairy than chrysopid larvae. Some are widespread (Hemerobius, Micromus, Notiobiella, Sympherobius, Wesmaelius), while most are restricted to single biogeographical realms. Adults of Drepanepteryginae mimic dead leaves. Some have reduced wings and are flightless.

Images

Habitat

Diverse including forests, woodlands, agricultural crops, and urban gardens. Specific microhabitats vary by and include foliage of trees and shrubs, herbaceous vegetation, and crop plants. Some species are associated with particular plant . are attracted to light and may be found at light stations at night.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution with approximately 500 in 28 . Some genera are (Hemerobius, Micromus, Notiobiella, Sympherobius, Wesmaelius), while most are restricted to single biogeographical realms. Fossil records extend from Jurassic to recent, with numerous extinct genera described from Eocene to Miocene deposits and amber.

Seasonality

Activity patterns vary by and region. are frequently observed at light stations during summer months in temperate regions. Multiple per year are common in favorable climates. Some species overwinter as adults or larvae depending on local conditions.

Diet

Both larvae and are predatory, feeding primarily on aphids and other soft-bodied insects including caterpillars, spider mites, lace bugs, larvae, and of various plant pests. Larvae are capable of consuming approximately 200 aphids per week.

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Green lacewing females deposit eggs on slender stalks, while brown lacewing females typically deposit eggs directly on leaf surfaces. Larvae hatch and actively hunt prey. After three instars, larvae spin white silken cocoons attached to plant surfaces for . Adults emerge after several weeks and feed on nectar, pollen, and honeydew in addition to prey.

Behavior

are and attracted to light. Larvae are active using sickle-shaped to grasp and consume prey. Some exhibit leaf-mimicry as adults (Drepanepteryginae). Flightless species occur with reduced or absent wings. Adults use olfactory cues to locate -infested plants for oviposition.

Ecological Role

Important agents in natural and agricultural . on aphids and other soft-bodied pests helps regulate pest . Contribute to natural pest suppression in crops, forests, and gardens. Some commercially reared for .

Human Relevance

Used in biological pest control, particularly for management. Micromus tasmaniae is commercially bred and released for pest control in agricultural systems. Aphid lions ( larvae) are sold commercially for release in gardens, greenhouses, and agricultural crops including cotton and strawberries. Provide services through natural pest suppression, reducing need for chemical .

Similar Taxa

Chrysopidae (green lacewings)Superficially similar appearance as lacewings, but distinguished by green coloration, different wing venation (fewer radial sectors, unforked costal cross ), and hairier larvae. Green lacewings also typically deposit on stalks rather than directly on leaves.
Coniopterygidae (dustywings)Small lacewings with powdery or dusty wings due to dense coating of wax-producing hairs; much smaller than most and with reduced wing venation.

More Details

Wing polymorphism

Some exhibit wing reduction to the degree that are flightless, representing an evolutionary to specific or conditions.

Mimicry

of Drepanepteryginae exhibit mimicry of dead leaves, providing camouflage from .

Phylogenetic relationships

appear closely related to Mantispidae rather than to Chrysopidae, despite superficial similarities. The superfamily Hemerobioidea is currently restricted to Hemerobiidae alone.