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Lacewings


Green Lacewings are considered as beneficial insects as many feed on other insects.  Lacewings are commercially available for this reason and are among the most commonly released natural enemies of many garden pests.  Adult Green Lacewings are soft bodied insects with two pairs of transparent wings.  Adults most commonly fly at night and are often seen around lights.  Eggs are laid both singly and in clusters depending on the species.  The eggs are laid individually on silken stalks giving them an almost tiny bean sprout like appearance.  Eggs hatch in just 4 days and the larvae begin their maturation through three instar stages as they work towards their complete metamorphosis into an adult.  Larvae resemble tiny alligators in that they have a flattened body that tapers at the tail.  They measure 3-20mm in length, have distinct legs and possess mandibles which they utilize to attack and consume their prey.  Mites, aphids, small caterpillars, leafhoppers and various insect eggs are commonly part of Green Lacewings’ diets.  Pupation occurs in sphere shaped silken cocoons which are typically attached to plants or under loosened tree bark.