Cape Spoonwing vs Malay Green Lacewing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cape Spoonwing | Malay Green Lacewing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Palmipenna aeoleoptera | Mallada basalis |
| Order | Neuroptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Nemopteridae | Chrysopidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan (forewings) | 14-20 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | South Africa | Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Southern China |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cape Spoonwing
A South African nemopterid with broad, paddle-shaped hindwings. One of the most spectacular insects in the Western Cape fynbos.
Did You Know?
Its broad paddle hindwings are wider than those of any other nemopterid, making it instantly recognizable.
Malay Green Lacewing
A tropical Asian lacewing with a greenish body and dark wing venation. Commercially reared in Taiwan for pest control in greenhouses.
Did You Know?
Taiwanese farmers release this species in nethouses to protect strawberry and vegetable crops.