Long-tailed Antlions
Brachynemurini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Neuroptera
- Suborder: Myrmeleontiformia
- Family: Myrmeleontidae
- Subfamily: Myrmeleontinae
- Tribe: Brachynemurini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Brachynemurini: /ˌbræ.kɪ.nəˈmjʊr.aɪ.niː/
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Summary
Brachynemurini is the largest tribe of antlions within the Myrmeleontidae family, comprising 28 genera and 117 described species. They are identified by the notable sexual dimorphism in body size, particularly the longer abdomens of males. Antlions are known for their unique predatory behavior and ecological role in controlling pest populations.
Physical Characteristics
Males exhibit significantly longer abdomens than females in some species.
Identification Tips
Distinguishing features may include the length of the abdomen and the specific morphology related to the genus.
Habitat
Primarily found in sandy or loose soil environments where they can dig pits for prey capture.
Distribution
Widespread; specific distribution varies by genus and species, but notable presence in diverse ecological zones.
Diet
They primarily feed on small insects, capturing them in ambush traps they create in the sand.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages; larvae are predatory, often creating characteristic pits to capture prey.
Reproduction
Reproduction typically involves egg-laying in suitable substrates, with specific mating behaviors depending on the species.
Predators
Birds and other predatory insects may consume adult antlions; larvae are also preyed upon by larger predators.
Ecosystem Role
Serve as predators of pest insects, helping to control their populations.
Economic Impact
Can impact pest control positively but not known for any significant economic value.
Collecting Methods
- Light trapping
- Netting adults in their natural habitat
- Excavating larval pits for larvae
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinned specimens for adults
- Refrigerated storage for larvae
Evolution
Belongs to a lineage that showcases a diverse adaptation to predatory lifestyles.
Similar Taxa
- Myrmeleontidae
- Sialidae
- Ascalaphidae
Misconceptions
Often confused with other insect groups; their predatory nature may lead to misconceptions about being harmful to humans.
Tags
- antlions
- Brachynemurini
- neuroptera
- insecta
- predatory insects