Antlions & Owlflies
Myrmeleontidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Neuroptera
- Suborder: Myrmeleontiformia
- Family: Myrmeleontidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Myrmeleontidae: /mɪərˌmɛliˈɒntɪdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Myrmeleontidae, commonly known as antlions or owlflies, are a diverse family of insects known for the predatory habits of their larvae, which construct funnel-shaped pits to trap prey. They are found worldwide, with significant diversity in warm regions, and are less recognized as adults due to their short lifespan compared to larvae.
Physical Characteristics
Adult body size ranges from 40–80 mm; they have two pairs of long, narrow, multiveined, translucent wings and a long, slender abdomen. The larvae are robust with a plump abdomen and possess sickle-like jaws.
Identification Tips
Adults can be distinguished from damselflies by their prominent, clubbed antennae and different wing venation. Larvae commonly create funnel-shaped pits in loose sand.
Habitat
Dry and sandy habitats, including open woodland floors, hedge bases, river banks, and occasionally tree holes or leaf litter.
Distribution
Worldwide with a greater diversity in tropical regions; species such as Euroleon nostras are found in temperate locations.
Diet
Larvae are voracious predators of small arthropods, mainly ants; adults may consume pollen, nectar, or small arthropods.
Life Cycle
Life cycle begins with oviposition in suitable locations, followed by larval stages where they ambush prey or create pits, and then pupation within a silk-spun cocoon.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs in suitable substrate by using their ovipositor; they tap the laying site with their abdomen before depositing eggs.
Predators
Birds, larger predatory insects, and other predators that might consume adults and larvae.
Ecosystem Role
Antlions play a significant role as predators in their ecosystems, aiding in the control of insect populations.
Cultural Significance
The larvae are often referred to as 'doodlebugs' and have been mentioned in folklore and literature since classical antiquity; they appear in various cultures and stories.
Collecting Methods
- Hand netting adults at dusk
- Search for larvae in sandy areas
Preservation Methods
- Pinning adults with wings spread
- Storing larvae in alcohol
Evolution
The Myrmeleontidae family is part of the Neuroptera order and is thought to have evolved over 150 million years ago, with a close relation to owlflies (Ascalaphidae).
Similar Taxa
- Ascalaphidae (owlflies)
- Vermileonidae (wormlions)
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for dragonflies or damselflies due to their appearance and nocturnal behavior.
Tags
- Myrmeleontidae
- antlions
- doodlebugs
- insects
- predatory larvae