Malagasy Ant Lion vs Chilean Green Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Ant Lion Chilean Green Lacewing
Scientific Name Palpares lenticularis Chrysoperla externa
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Myrmeleontidae Chrysopidae
Size 60-80 mm wingspan 14-22 mm wingspan
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Farmland
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Madagascar South America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Malagasy Ant Lion

A large neuropteran with broad, spotted wings that resemble those of a dragonfly. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights, while larvae dig conical pit traps in sandy soil.

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Did You Know?

Larvae sit buried at the bottom of their funnel-shaped sand traps and flick sand grains at prey to prevent escape.

Chilean Green Lacewing

The most common green lacewing in South America with a broad distribution. Extensively used for biological control in Brazilian agriculture.

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Did You Know?

Brazilian farmers rear millions of these lacewings annually for release in soybean and cotton fields.