lacewing (redirected from lacewing fly)

lacewing

Lacewing (Chrysopa)

(credit: A.E.Mc.R. Pearce—Bruce Coleman Ltd.)

Any of numerous species of insects in the order Neuroptera, especially those in the green lacewing and brown lacewing families. The green lacewing has long, delicate antennae, a slender greenish body, golden- or copper-coloured eyes, and two pairs of veined wings. It is found worldwide and flies near grasses and shrubs. It is also known as a stinkfly because it emits a disagreeable odour. The larva, with prominent sucking mouthparts, drains body fluids from aphids and other soft-bodied insects. The brown lacewing resembles the green lacewing but is smaller and brown.