Red-veined Darter vs Thread-winged Antlion Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Red-veined Darter Thread-winged Antlion Lacewing
Scientific Name Sympetrum fonscolombii Croce filipennis
Order Odonata Neuroptera
Family Libellulidae Nemopteridae
Size 33-40mm 15-20 mm forewing; hindwings up to 80 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Heathland
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe, Africa, Asia Southern Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Red-veined Darter

A striking darter dragonfly with red veins on the leading edge of the wings and a vivid blue underside to the eyes. Males are bright red while females are yellowish. It is a strong migrant.

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Did You Know?

It breeds in temporary pools and can complete its larval development in as little as two months.

Thread-winged Antlion Lacewing

A bizarre nemopterid with extremely long, thread-like hindwings. Males have hindwings that can be several times their body length.

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Did You Know?

Its hindwings can be four times longer than the forewings, trailing behind like fine threads.