American Dustywing vs Mexican Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute American Dustywing Mexican Antlion
Scientific Name Conwentzia californica Vella americana
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Coniopterygidae Myrmeleontidae
Size 3-5 mm wingspan 65-85 mm wingspan
Habitat Gardens Deserts & Drylands
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Western North America Southwestern United States, Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

American Dustywing

A tiny western North American dustywing found on fruit trees and ornamental plants. Valued as a natural mite predator in orchards.

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Did You Know?

Citrus growers consider it one of the most important natural enemies of citrus red mite.

Mexican Antlion

A robust antlion found across the southern United States and Mexico. Recognized by its large size and boldly marked forewings.

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Did You Know?

Adults are surprisingly strong fliers for antlions and actively hunt small moths at dusk.