European Antlion vs Australian Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute European Antlion Australian Antlion
Scientific Name Euroleon nostras Myrmeleon acer
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Myrmeleontidae Myrmeleontidae
Size 30-40 mm wingspan 30-40 mm wingspan
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Beaches & Coastal
Diet Pollen Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North Africa Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

European Antlion

A large neuropteran whose larvae build conical sand pits to trap ants and other small insects. Adults resemble damselflies but are weaker fliers.

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Did You Know?

Antlion larvae can survive for months without food while waiting at the bottom of their sand traps.

Australian Antlion

A medium-sized antlion common in sandy habitats across Australia. Its larvae construct classic conical pit traps in sheltered sandy ground.

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Did You Know?

Australian antlion larvae flick sand grains at prey trying to escape their pits, causing tiny avalanches that drag victims to the bottom.