Sympherobius occidentalis
(Fitch, 1855)
western brown lacewing
Sympherobius occidentalis is a of brown lacewing in the Hemerobiidae, first described by Fitch in 1855. It is native to North America. Brown lacewings in this family are generally predatory as both larvae and , though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented. The species is part of a containing approximately 30 described species distributed primarily in the Americas.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sympherobius occidentalis: /sɪmˌfɛɹoʊˈbiəs ɒksɪˈdɛntəlɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Sympherobius by genitalic characters and wing venation patterns; specific diagnostic features for S. occidentalis require examination of male genitalia and forewing markings. are small, delicate neuropterans with brownish coloration, long , and wings with dense net-like venation typical of Hemerobiidae.
Distribution
North America; specific range details within the continent are not well documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Sympherobius amiculusOverlapping distribution in western North America; distinguished by subtle differences in wing markings and male genitalia structure.
- Sympherobius barberiSympatric in parts of North America; requires genitalic examination for reliable separation.
- Hemerobius spp.Other brown lacewing in same ; Hemerobius generally larger with different wing venation patterns and forewing marking configurations.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Bumble Bees: Feeling Impact of Climate Change | Bug Squad
- Probing the Molecular Interactions Between Western Flower Thrips and the Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus | Bug Squad
- Flabellate Grasshopper
- Ticks Can Do More Than 'Tick You Off' | Bug Squad
- Good News for the Western Bumble Bee, Bombus occidentalis
- A sting to kill a cow? Red velvet ant, a.k.a. cow killer, Dasymutilla occidentalis — Bug of the Week