Thread-Winged Lacewing vs Yellow Mantidfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Thread-Winged Lacewing | Yellow Mantidfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nemoptera sinuata | Leptomantispa pulchella |
| Order | Neuroptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Nemopteridae | Mantispidae |
| Size | 25-30 mm body; 40 mm hindwing streamers | 14-20 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Underground |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Central America, Northern South America |
| 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.
Did You Know?
The extraordinary ribbon-like hindwings are thought to confuse predators by creating a misleading silhouette in flight.
Yellow Mantidfly
A delicate yellow mantidfly found in tropical Central and South America. Its slender build and pale coloring provide camouflage among flowers.
Did You Know?
Its yellow coloring helps it blend in among tropical flowers where it waits to ambush visiting insects.