Protidricerus albocapitatus

Protidricerus albocapitatus Latest News

Recently, scientists have discovered a new species of owlfly in Kerala after 134 years and named it Protidricerus albocapitatus.

About Protidricerus albocapitatus

• It was found in the Nedumkayam forest in Malappuram district of Kerala.
• It is a species of owlfly belongs to the family Myrmeleontidae and order Neuroptera.
• With this addition, Kerala now hosts five known species of owlflies, and India’s total rises to 37.
• Appearance: It has white tufted head and clubbed antennae.

Key Facts about Owlflies

• They belong to the order Neuroptera, comprising holometabolous insects.

Characteristics of Owlflies

• Habitat: Adult owlflies perch on blades of grass growing in lateritic soils and also in village households, surrounded by dense vegetation.
• Appearance: The two distinguishing characteristics of owlflies are their long, clubbed antennae and their bulging eyes.
• Some species of owlflies develop some color in their wings after their emergence.
• Behaviour

• • They become active during dusk and take flight. 
  • They are aerial predators feeding on other insects.
  • They release a strong, musk-like chemical to deter enemies.
• Reproduction: Usually lay their eggs in groups at the tips of limbs and twigs. The female creates a protective shield below the eggs in order to prevent predators from reaching them.

Source: PIB

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