The Neuroptera are an order of insects commonly known as lacewings, antlions, and their relatives. Characterized by their intricately veined, membranous wings, these net-winged insects display remarkable wing morphology and undergo complete metamorphosis. Both larvae and adults are often voracious predators, making Neuroptera vital natural enemies of many agricultural pests. Their fossil record dates back over 200 million years, highlighting their evolutionary success and stability.
- Highly specialized wing structure with netlike venation
- Includes lacewings, antlions, owlflies, and their relatives
- Undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult
- Larvae and adults mostly predatory on pest insects
- Important for biological control in agriculture
- Fossil record extends to the Mesozoic era
Netlike wing venation, complete metamorphosis, and predatory habits of both larvae and adults are characteristic of Neuroptera.
Source Material
Author: University of Florida Entomology
Document: Neuroptera - Lacewings, Antlions, and Their Relatives
Date Published: 2024
Delicate Wing Structure
Neuroptera have membranous wings with a dense network of veins, and their forewings and hindwings are similar in structure and appearance.
The order name Neuroptera means “nerve wings,” referring to their hallmark delicate wing structure: two pairs of soft, transparent wings laden with an elaborate network of veins resembling a fine lace or net. Both pairs of wings are very similar in size and shape, ensuring excellent aerodynamic control. This intricate venation not only aids in identification but also sets Neuroptera apart from most other insect orders.
- Two pairs of similar, membranous wings with dense veination
- Veins form a lace-like (netlike) pattern, hence “neuroptera” (nerve wings)
- Wings are fragile and often beautifully translucent
- Provide both lift and maneuverability during flight
Source Material
Author: Amateur Entomologists' Society
Document: Neuroptera - Lacewings, Antlions
Date Published: 2024
Predator of Pests
Neuroptera larvae and adults prey on pest insects like aphids and mites, providing natural pest control.
Neuroptera are renowned as voracious predators of pests in both their adult and larval forms. Adults often feed on aphids, scale insects, mites, and insect eggs, while larvae—sometimes called “aphid lions”—possess strong mandibles for seizing and consuming soft-bodied pests. This dual-stage predation makes them valuable allies in integrated pest management, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Adults and larvae consume aphids, whiteflies, mites, insect eggs, and small larvae
- Larvae are especially efficient “biological control agents”
- Used in some commercial biocontrol programs for greenhouse and field crops
- Help minimize use of synthetic pesticides
Source Material
Author: Purdue University Entomology
Document: Lacewings and Antlions: Insect Orders Neuroptera and Megaloptera
Date Published: 2023
Larval Stage Behavior
Neuroptera larvae are active predators, some (like antlions) build pitfall traps, and all feed on pest insects.
Neuroptera larvae exhibit striking and specialized predatory behaviors. Most larvae are active hunters equipped with robust, sickle-shaped jaws for grasping prey, and they consume large quantities of pest insects. Some, like the antlion larvae, are ambush predators that construct sandy pit traps to capture ants and other small arthropods. Their voracious appetites and diverse hunting strategies make Neuroptera larvae exceptionally effective biological control agents.
- Larvae possess elongate, curved mandibles for piercing prey
- Lacewing larvae are mobile predators; antlion larvae are ambush predators
- Some larvae camouflage themselves with debris for protection
- Consume aphids, thrips, mites, and insect eggs during larval stage
Source Material
Author: US Forest Service
Document: Neuroptera: Lacewings and Antlions
Date Published: 2024
Conclusion
Neuroptera are a fascinating group of net-winged insects whose delicate wing structure, predatory habits, and larval behaviors uniquely qualify them as Nature’s pest controllers.
- Netlike wing venation defines their identity as “nerve-winged” insects.
- Both adult and larval Neuroptera suppress garden and crop pests.
- Their diverse life strategies enable them to occupy key ecological niches.
Neuroptera are important because they naturally control pest insect populations.
The name 'Neuroptera' refers to their 'nerve wings,' describing their wing venation.
Lacewings and antlions belong to the order Neuroptera.