Green lacewings are delicate insects commonly found across various regions, including North America and Europe.
Appearance and General Traits
Green lacewings are classified within the Chrysopidae family, which encompasses approximately 85 genera and between 1,300 and 2,000 known species. Their bodies display a bright green to greenish-brown coloration. Their compound eyes often have a golden appearance, contributing to their distinct look.
Their wings are translucent with a subtle iridescence, and some species exhibit green wing veins or a cloudy brownish pattern. The wingspan of these insects can range from 6 millimeters to over 65 millimeters.
Life Stages and Feeding Habits
The life cycle of green lacewings involves several stages. The larval stage is notable for its feeding habits. Larvae are known as “aphidlions” due to their aggressive predatory nature. They are voracious eaters of soft-bodied insects, including aphids, small caterpillars, and certain beetle larvae.
These larvae capture their prey using large, curved, hollow mandibles. Once prey is secured, the larvae inject digestive enzymes through these mandibles, dissolving the prey’s internal tissues. This feeding method makes them highly effective biological control agents.
Adult green lacewings have a different diet than larvae. They consume nectar, pollen, and honeydew, which is a sugary excretion from aphids. Most adults feed on these substances, but some species supplement their diet by preying on smaller insects.
Ecological Role
Green lacewings contribute to ecological balance, particularly through their use in biological pest control. Their effectiveness is due to the predatory habits of their larval stage. These “aphidlions” actively seek out and consume numerous agricultural and garden pests.
Due to their predatory nature, green lacewing eggs are often sold for release in agricultural fields, greenhouses, and home gardens. When confined, the larvae exhibit cannibalistic tendencies, which is a consideration when distributing them for pest management. Their introduction can reduce pest populations naturally, minimizing the need for chemical interventions.
Distinctive Communication
Green lacewings communicate uniquely through substrate or body vibrations. These vibrations are used during their courtship rituals. Males and females exchange specific vibrational signals to locate and identify potential mates.
These distinct mating signals differentiate various green lacewing species. Even species that appear very similar in their physical form can be identified by their unique vibrational patterns. This specialized communication system plays a role in reproductive isolation among different species.