Chrysoperla externa
This record describes Chrysoperla externa (species). Recorded family: Chrysopidae. Recorded order: Neuroptera.
Identification and Appearance
Noted for the reddish markings on the prothorax (similar to many members of Ceraeochrysa ), single narrow red stripe on the genae (lips), and pointed hind wingtips.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Neuroptera (Antlions, Lacewings, and Allies)
- Family
- Chrysopidae (Green Lacewings)
- Subfamily
- Chrysopinae
- Tribe
- Chrysopini
- Genus
- Chrysoperla (Common Green Lacewings)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
FL, SC, TX "This is a fairly common species throughout most of Latin America. In the USA it is restricted to the southern states, including TX." -Dr. Catherine Tauber.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Chrysoperla externa (Hagen, 1861)
About Antlions, Lacewings, and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Neuroptera, the group containing Chrysoperla externa. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Neuroptera (lacewings, antlions, owlflies) includes ~6,000 described species. Green lacewing larvae are called 'aphid lions' - a single larva can consume up to 200 aphids per week.
Ecological role of the group
Antlion larvae build conical pit traps in sandy soil - an engineering feat studied by physicists for insights into granular mechanics. Adult lacewings are important pollinators of night-blooming flowers.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Lacewings are commercially reared and sold as biological pest control agents. The global biological pest control market, which heavily features lacewings, was valued at $6.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $16.4 billion by 2033.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA IPM, biological control market research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Chrysoperla externa (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by John Schneider; Additional contributions by PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysoperla externa
What is Chrysoperla externa?
Chrysoperla externa is a species in the family Chrysopidae, within the order Neuroptera.
How do you identify Chrysoperla externa?
Noted for the reddish markings on the prothorax (similar to many members of Ceraeochrysa ), single narrow red stripe on the genae (lips), and pointed hind wingtips.
Where is Chrysoperla externa found?
Range: FL, SC, TX This is a fairly common species throughout most of Latin America. In the USA it is restricted to the southern states, including TX. -Dr. Catherine Tauber.