I thought it has been awhile since we took some time to study the amazing world of insects. Okay, so I know not everyone shares the same love I have for our precious insect “friends” but you have to admit some of these bugs are pretty cool. I think today’s insect falls into this “cool” category since they are actually beneficial to humans. Do you remember Garden Pest week on Wild Facts? Well the Green Lacewing is the exact opposite of a garden pest since they literally destroy those pesky garden intruders. Okay, maybe not the White-tailed Deer but definitely those deadly Aphids.
So what else can we learn about the Green Lacewing? Well, they are very common across North America and Europe, believe it or not they have a green coloured body and they are incredibly delicate. As well, this diverse group of insects can have a wingspan anywhere between 6 mm (2.3″) and 65 mm (25.5″), with the larger Lacewings being found in the tropical areas. Your best chance to catch a glimpse of these beneficial insects would be during the night or at dusk and dawn when they are most active.
During these times, the Green Lacewing will be out and about foraging on a variety of prey items. As mentioned, Aphids are a common snack for them, however, they will also chow down on mites and other small arthropods. Similarly, they supplement their diet with nectar and pollen. Although, most species feed on both insects and nectar there are some species that are solely predatory and still others that just like the sweet taste of nectar and pollen. To each their own, I guess.
The larvae of the Green Lacewing are in my Top 5 Coolest Larvae list. Of course I have a Top 5 coolest larvae list! What? You don’t? The Lacewing larvae are absolute eating machines! They particularly enjoy feeding on aphids and mites while in this stage. Their feeding frenzy has lead to them being called Aphid Lions or Aphid Wolves. Both are wicked names that I am sure the larvae are proud of. Other than their sense of touch, they are not highly developed in their larvae form. They just sort of walk around swaying their head back and forth hoping to find something. Once they bump into a potential prey item, they will inject it with a special digestive secretion that can literally dissolve the organs of an aphid in about 90 seconds. Now do you see why they are in my Top 5 Coolest Larvae list?
See, insects can be fun and interesting, right? I hope you enjoyed reading this fact as much as I enjoyed writing it. Have a great day and I will see you tomorrow.
