Tasmanian Brown Lacewing vs Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tasmanian Brown Lacewing | Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Micromus tasmaniae | Corydalus cornutus |
| Order | Neuroptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Hemerobiidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 7-11 mm wingspan | 40-55 mm body, 125 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tasmanian Brown Lacewing
A small Australian brown lacewing that has become a globally significant biocontrol agent. Widely studied for its effectiveness against crop aphids.
Did You Know?
A single adult can eat over 100 aphids per week, making it highly valued in Australian agriculture.
Dobsonfly
Large insects with intimidating mandibles in males that are actually too large to bite effectively. Aquatic hellgrammite larvae are prized as fishing bait and indicate clean water.
Did You Know?
Male dobsonflies have terrifying mandibles up to 40 mm long, but they are so large the males cannot actually generate enough force to pinch — the females bite harder.