Persian Spoonwing vs Long-horned Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Persian Spoonwing Long-horned Antlion
Scientific Name Lertha sheppardi Distoleon tetragrammicus
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Nemopteridae Myrmeleontidae
Size 28-36 mm wingspan (forewings) 30-40 mm body, 60-75 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Beaches & Coastal
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Iran, Middle East, Central Asia Europe, North Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Persian Spoonwing

A Middle Eastern nemopterid found in arid steppe and desert-margin habitats. Adults have beautifully patterned forewings and long trailing hindwings.

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Did You Know?

It emerges in brief spring blooms in the desert, matching its adult life to wildflower availability.

Long-horned Antlion

A large antlion with intricately patterned wings and long clubbed antennae. Unlike most antlions, the larvae do not build pit traps.

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Did You Know?

Its larvae hide just beneath the sand surface and lunge at passing prey rather than using pit traps.