American Scorpionfly vs Split-Footed Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute American Scorpionfly Split-Footed Lacewing
Scientific Name Panorpa nuptialis Nymphes myrmeleonides
Order Mecoptera Neuroptera
Family Panorpidae Nymphidae
Size 18-25 mm 50-70 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Fruit Feeders Omnivores
Regions Southeastern United States Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

American Scorpionfly

A large scorpionfly found in the southeastern United States with prominent wing spots. Males engage in elaborate courtship rituals involving nuptial gifts.

💡

Did You Know?

This species was key to discovering that nuptial gift-giving in scorpionflies helps males avoid being eaten by females.

Split-Footed Lacewing

A large Australian lacewing with a wingspan up to 70 mm and distinctive bilobed tarsi. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights.

💡

Did You Know?

This species belongs to an ancient lineage of lacewings found only in Australia, dating back over 150 million years.