Antlions

Antlions Latest News

Researchers recently discovered two new species of antlions named Indophanes keralaensis and Indophanes sahyadriensis belonging to the family Myrmeleontidae under the order Neuroptera.

About Antlions

• Antlions are a group of about 2,000 different species of insects. 
• They belong to a family called Myrmeleontidae. 
• They are named for the predatory nature of the larvae, which commonly trap ants and other small insects in pits dug into the ground.
• Adult antlions are not as well known. They live for a shorter time than the larvae. 
  • Adult antlions, sometimes called antlion lacewings, usually fly at dusk or after dark. 
  • People sometimes mistake them for dragonflies or damselflies.
• Habitat and Distribution:
  • Antlions live all over the world. 
  • Most types are found in warm, tropical places. 
  • But some species, like the European Euroleon nostras, live in colder areas. 
  • They often live in dry, sandy places. This is where their larvae can easily dig their traps. 
  • However, some larvae hide under leaves or other bits of nature. They wait to ambush their prey there.
• They come in various shapes and sizes, with larvae typically measuring from a few millimeters to several centimeters, depending on the species. 
  • Antlion larvae have rounded bodies with long sickle-shaped jaws. 
  • The larvae are found at the base of cone-shaped pits in sandy areas.
  • In North America, these larvae are sometimes called doodlebugs. This is because of the wiggly marks they leave in the sand.
  • They usually remain in the larval stage for one to two years, depending on the species.
  • Once they pupate, they require up to one month to complete their development.
• Antlions are harmless and cause no damage to flowers, people, or structures.
• They are highly beneficial and feed on ants and other insects that fall into their traps.

Source: TH

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