Thread-Winged Lacewing vs Cristina's Timema

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Thread-Winged Lacewing Cristina's Timema
Scientific Name Nemoptera sinuata Timema cristinae
Order Neuroptera Phasmatodea
Family Nemopteridae Timematidae
Size 25-30 mm body; 40 mm hindwing streamers 2-2.5 cm
Habitat Heathland Heathland
Diet Pollen Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia United States (Southern California)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Thread-Winged Lacewing

An unmistakable insect with elongated, ribbon-like hindwings that trail behind in flight. Found in dry Mediterranean habitats where it feeds on pollen.

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Did You Know?

The extraordinary ribbon-like hindwings are thought to confuse predators by creating a misleading silhouette in flight.

Cristina's Timema

A small, stout walking stick from California that comes in green, striped, and melanistic forms. It is a major model species for studying speciation and adaptation.

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Did You Know?

Different color morphs are adapted to different host plants, providing a textbook example of natural selection in action.