silky lacewing
Quick Summary
The term "silky lacewing" refers to insects within the family Psychopsidae. These are large, moth-like lacewings with broad wings. Their larvae are elongated and flat, with broad heads and incurved, sickle-like jaws. They are often found living under tree bark.1
Lacewings, in general, are insects characterized by intricate, lacy wing veins. They are found worldwide and are known for their voracious appetites as larvae, particularly for aphids, making them beneficial for biological control. The larvae, often called aphidlions, have specialized mouthparts for piercing and sucking fluids from prey. After a period of feeding, they spin a silken cocoon to pupate before emerging as adults.21
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