Berothidae
Guides
Lomamyia
Nearctic Beaded Lacewings
Lomamyia is a genus of beaded lacewings (family Berothidae) containing approximately 11 described species, all native to the Nearctic region. Larvae are specialized predators of termites, incapacitating prey with a chemical spray emitted from the anus—a unique defensive and predatory mechanism among Neuroptera. The genus is notable for having the first published complete life history record for the family Berothidae, based on detailed study of Lomamyia latipennis.
Lomamyia banksi
Lomamyia banksi is a species of beaded lacewing in the family Berothidae, order Neuroptera. First described by Carpenter in 1940, this species belongs to a genus known for distinctive predatory larvae that possess unique chemical hunting mechanisms. The species has been recorded from North America, with observations documented in Colorado. Like other members of Lomamyia, the larvae are likely specialized predators, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented.
Lomamyia occidentalis
Lomamyia occidentalis is a species of beaded lacewing in the family Berothidae, order Neuroptera. It is native to North America and was first described by Nathan Banks in 1905. The species belongs to a small family of lacewings characterized by specialized morphological features. Very little published biological or ecological information is available for this specific species.
Lomamyia squamosa
Lomamyia squamosa is a species of beaded lacewing in the family Berothidae, first described by Carpenter in 1940. It belongs to the order Neuroptera, which includes lacewings, antlions, and their relatives. The species is known from North America, with iNaturalist documenting over 500 observations. Like other members of its family, it is likely predatory in both adult and larval stages, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.