Thread-winged Antlion Lacewing vs Long-Necked Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Thread-winged Antlion Lacewing Long-Necked Antlion
Scientific Name Croce filipennis Palpares libelluloides
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Nemopteridae Myrmeleontidae
Size 15-20 mm forewing; hindwings up to 80 mm 100-110 mm wingspan
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Southern Africa Europe, Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Long-Necked Antlion

One of the largest European antlions with a wingspan exceeding 100 mm and boldly patterned wings. Adults are strong fliers active during warm evenings.

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Did You Know?

This is the largest neuropteran in Europe, with a wingspan rivaling many dragonfly species.