Hemerobius stigma

Stephens, 1836

brown pine lacewing

Hemerobius stigma is a of brown lacewing in the Hemerobiidae. It is commonly known as the brown pine . The species has a Holarctic distribution, occurring in Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. It was introduced to New Zealand in 1935 as a agent for adelgids on pine plantations but failed to establish.

Hemerobius stigma by (c) Dan MacNeal, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Dan MacNeal. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hemerobius stigma: //hɛˈmɛ.roʊ.bi.əs ˈstɪɡ.mə//

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

Images

Habitat

Associated with coniferous forests, particularly pine plantations. The "brown pine " suggests a specific association with pine .

Distribution

Europe; Northern Asia (excluding China); North America. Introduced but not established in New Zealand.

Diet

Predatory, feeding on adelgids (Hemiptera: Adelgidae) as documented from its intentional introduction to New Zealand for of these pests.

Host Associations

Adelgidae - preyTargeted for in New Zealand pine plantations
Pinus - Associated with pine plantations; reflects this association

Behavior

are and have been observed at blacklight/UV light sources. Overwinters as adults.

Ecological Role

of adelgids, a group of conifer-feeding hemipterans. Attempted use as agent.

Human Relevance

Subject of an unsuccessful introduction to New Zealand in 1935 to manage adelgid pests in pine plantations. The was noted as present but did not establish a .

Similar Taxa

Micromus posticusAnother brown lacewing that can occur sympatrically; distinguished by expert identification
Chrysoperla spp.Green lacewings in Chrysopidae; are typically green rather than brown, though green lacewings may appear brown or reddish in autumn and spring

More Details

Biological control history

Hemerobius stigma was introduced to New Zealand in 1935 specifically to prey on adelgids ( Adelgidae) infesting pine plantations. Despite being released, the was unable to establish and is not considered present in the New Zealand fauna.