Giant and Moth Lacewings

Ithonidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Neuroptera
Suborder: Hemerobiiformia
Family: Ithonidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ithonidae: /ɪˈθoʊnɪˌdeɪ/

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Summary

Ithonidae, or moth and giant lacewings, is a primitive family of neuropterans with a notable disjunct distribution. The family contains living and extinct genera, with unique larval characteristics and varied adult behaviors. Despite being poorly understood, they are of interest among entomologists due to their unique morphology and ecology.

Physical Characteristics

Typically medium to large-sized neuropterans, length exceeding 50 mm; larvae are grub-like and subterranean, with a shape resembling scarab beetles.

Identification Tips

Look for the unique grub-like larvae, which are unusual among Neuroptera; adults exhibit distinct wing venation and size variation.

Habitat

Found in varied habitats, including arid regions (e.g., deserts) and forested areas across different climatic zones.

Distribution

Three species in the Nearctic realm and four in the Neotropical realm. Genera found in the Eastern Hemisphere are located in the Australasian and Indomalayan realms.

Diet

Larvae are likely phytophagous (plant feeding), although some adults are known to be carnivorous. The larvae may also prey on Scarabaeidae larvae.

Life Cycle

Larvae emerge from the ground, live a subterranean life, and have mass emergence events linked to seasonal rains; adults mate shortly after emerging and then die.

Reproduction

Mass emergences occur, typically involving mating shortly after the adult's emergence from the larvae stage.

Ecosystem Role

The larvae may play a role in controlling pest populations, given their predatory behavior on other insect larvae.

Evolution

Ithonidae is considered one of the most primitive living neuropteran families, with historical connections to now-extinct genera dated from the Early Jurassic to the Late Eocene.

Similar Taxa

Polystoechotidae
Rapismatidae