Malabar Tree Nymph vs Downes' Green Lacewing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Malabar Tree Nymph | Downes' Green Lacewing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Idea malabarica | Chrysoperla downesi |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Chrysopidae |
| Size | 120-154 mm wingspan | 12-18 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | South Asia (India, endemic to the Western Ghats; also Sri Lanka) | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Malabar Tree Nymph
A very large, elegant butterfly with translucent white wings patterned with dark veins and spots. It flies slowly and gracefully through the forest canopy, resembling a floating tissue paper in the dappled light.
Did You Know?
Its slow, fearless flight is an advertisement of its unpalatability; birds that taste it quickly learn to avoid its distinctive pattern.
Downes' Green Lacewing
A conifer-associated green lacewing that retains its green color through winter. Unlike relatives, it does not turn brown in cold months.
Did You Know?
It stays green year-round, while most related species change to brown or tan in winter.