Owlflies

About Owlflies: 

• They come under Order Neuroptera, which includes holometabolous insects while the dragonflies come under Order Odonata, which includes hemimetabolous insects.
• These are misidentified as dragonflies by non-taxonomists because of their morphological resemblance.
• During the day, 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 (nearly as long as the body) and their bulging eyes.
• Some species of owlflies develop some color in their wings after their emergence.
• Adult owlflies are aerial predators feeding on other insects. When disturbed, some owlflies release a strong, musk-like chemical to deter enemies.
• 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.
• Initially, owlfly larvae are usually found in the soil, or in trees where they live in clusters for defensive purposes.

Q1: What is Genetics?

Genetics is the scientific study of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms. Genes are the units of heredity that carry genetic information from one generation to the next. They determine the traits and characteristics of organisms, including humans.

Source: Rare owlfly species rediscovered in Kerala after 75 years

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