Neoconis marginata
This record describes Neoconis marginata (species). Recorded family: Coniopterygidae. Recorded order: Neuroptera.
Identification and Appearance
Neoconis marginata (Neoconis marginata) is a species in the family Coniopterygidae, commonly known as dusty lacewings, belonging to the order Neuroptera (Antlions, Lacewings, and Allies). It is classified within the subfamily Aleuropteryginae. This species belongs to the genus Neoconis.
Identification notes
Forewings distinctly spotted
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Neuroptera (Antlions, Lacewings, and Allies)
- Family
- Coniopterygidae (Dusty Lacewings)
- Subfamily
- Aleuropteryginae
- Genus
- Neoconis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
AZ, CA, TX
About Antlions, Lacewings, and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Neuroptera, the group containing Neoconis marginata. 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 Neoconis marginata (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jonathan Hoskins
Frequently Asked Questions About Neoconis marginata
What is Neoconis marginata?
Neoconis marginata is a species in the family Coniopterygidae, within the order Neuroptera.
How do you identify Neoconis marginata?
Forewings distinctly spotted
Where is Neoconis marginata found?
Range: AZ, CA, TX