Snakeflies
Rhaphidioptera
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Rhaphidioptera
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhaphidioptera: //ræˈfɪdiːˌɑptəra//
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Summary
Raphidioptera, or snakeflies, is an order of predatory insects with roughly 260 extant species. They exhibit a unique elongated prothorax, are mainly found in temperate regions, and have a complex life cycle consisting of eggs, larvae, pupae, and adult stages. They play a significant role in controlling pest populations but have limited success as biological control agents due to their long developmental period.
Physical Characteristics
Adults are long and slender with an elongated prothorax that is mobile, resembling lacewings. Average body length is between 15 and 30 mm. They have two pairs of long, membranous wings with primitive venation, and compound eyes positioned on the sides of the head. Males possess simple eyes, while females of the family Inocelliidae do not. The mouthparts are adapted for biting, featuring strong mandibles. Females have a long ovipositor for egg laying.
Identification Tips
Distinguishable from similar insects by their elongated prothorax and the absence of modified forelegs typical of mantis-flies. Females can be identified by their long ovipositor and the overall slender body appearance.
Habitat
Primarily found in temperate coniferous forests, often in arboreal and shrub habitats. Larvae develop under bark or in soil layers, particularly around shrub roots or in rock crevices.
Distribution
Widespread in temperate regions worldwide, absent from tropics and the Southern Hemisphere. Most species occur in Europe and Asia, with some in western North America, from Canada to the Mexican-Guatemalan border. Present in the mountainous regions of North Africa, limited to higher altitudes.
Diet
Larvae are predatory and feed on eggs and larvae of various other insects, including mites, springtails, and aphids. Adults also consume aphids and may feed on sugary substances.
Life Cycle
Holometabolous with four stages: eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. The larval stage can last two to three years on average, with some lasting up to six years. Requires a chilling period before pupation, typically occurring in spring.
Reproduction
Adults engage in courtship rituals before mating. Eggs are oviposited in concealed locations, hatching in a few days to three weeks. Larvae undergo multiple instars before reaching the prepupal stage and eventually pupate.
Predators
Birds, such as treecreepers, woodpeckers, and other insect-eating species prey on snakeflies. Larvae are also subject to parasitism, particularly by parasitoid wasps.
Ecosystem Role
Predators of soft-bodied arthropods, thereby playing a role in the control of pest populations such as aphids and mites.
Economic Impact
Considered potential biological pest control agents, although their long larval period may limit their efficiency in agricultural applications.
Health Concerns
Harmless to humans; misidentified for their long ovipositor, which is not a stinger.
Evolution
Dominant during the Mesozoic with a diverse fauna, with significant decline after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. Present-day species are considered living fossils, resembling ancient forms.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with other predatory insects; their ovipositor is misunderstood as a stinger.
Tags
- insects
- predators
- biological control
- snakeflies