Desert Lacewing vs African Predatory Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Desert Lacewing African Predatory Lacewing
Scientific Name Chrysoperla comanche Chrysopa pudica
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Chrysopidae Chrysopidae
Size 20-30 mm wingspan 16-24 mm wingspan
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Forests
Diet Predators Predators
Regions North America West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Desert Lacewing

A pale green lacewing adapted to arid environments of the American Southwest. Both adults and larvae are important predators of aphids and other small pests.

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Did You Know?

Its larvae are called aphid lions because a single larva can consume hundreds of aphids before pupating.

African Predatory Lacewing

A robust lacewing found across tropical Africa in forested and cultivated areas. Adults and larvae both contribute to pest suppression.

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Did You Know?

It is frequently collected in cocoa agroforestry systems where it helps control cocoa mirids.