Xiphydriid Maple Borer vs Common Brown Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Xiphydriid Maple Borer Common Brown Lacewing
Scientific Name Xiphydria maculata Hemerobius humulinus
Order Hymenoptera Neuroptera
Family Xiphydriidae Hemerobiidae
Size 10-18 mm 6-10 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Xiphydriid Maple Borer

A slender wood wasp with a long, narrow neck region and dark body spotted with pale markings. Females bore into hardwood trees, especially maples.

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Did You Know?

Xiphydriid wood wasps are rarely seen despite being widespread, as they are secretive insects that spend most of their life cycle deep inside wood.

Common Brown Lacewing

A small brownish lacewing with mottled wings commonly found on deciduous trees. Adults and larvae both feed on aphids and other small insects.

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Did You Know?

Unlike green lacewings, brown lacewing adults are also predatory and actively hunt small insects.