The Green Lacewing has two extremely beneficial functions for farmers.

In its larval stage, it is a predator that destroys the eggs and larvae of a large number of economically significant plant pests.

In its adult (imago) stage, it serves as an important pollinator.

Green Lacewings (Family Chrysopidae)

Green lacewings (family Chrysopidae) are small to medium-sized insects from the order Neuroptera, distributed almost worldwide, except for Antarctica. They are known for their exceptionally delicate, translucent wings and their shiny, often golden eyes, which give the family its name (from the Greek words chrysos – “golden” and ops – “eye”).

Morphology

Wings: Two pairs, extremely fine and transparent, with a branched network of veins.

Eyes: Large, with a golden or metallic sheen visible under certain lighting conditions.

Body: Usually green, but sometimes with other color variations such as brown or yellow.

Ecology

Green lacewings play a crucial role in ecosystems, as their larvae are active predators that feed on aphids, mites, and other small insects. For this reason, they are widely used in biological pest control in agriculture.

Species Diversity

The number of species is debated, ranging between 1,300 and 2,000, depending on classifications and the identification of cryptic species (species that are morphologically similar but genetically distinct).
In Bulgaria, 23 species have been recorded, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity.

These insects are not only of evolutionary interest but also ecologically important for regulating pest populations.

 

Life Cycle of Chrysoperla carnea

The life cycle of Chrysoperla carnea, commonly known as the common green lacewing, consists of four main stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult (imago). This follows a complete metamorphosis cycle. Here is how it unfolds:

1. Egg

Females lay eggs individually or in small clusters on vegetation.

Each egg is attached to a thin stalk, which helps protect it from predators and parasites.

The incubation period depends on temperature and typically lasts between 3 to 6 days.

2. Larva

The larvae are active predators and go through three developmental stages (instars).

They primarily feed on soft-bodied pests such as aphids, mites, small caterpillars, and other minor crop pests.

The larval stage lasts approximately 2 to 3 weeks, depending on food availability and environmental conditions.

Larvae use sharp mandibles to pierce their prey and extract body fluids.

3. Pupa

After completing the larval phase, the larvae attach themselves to vegetation or another suitable surface and spin a silk cocoon.

Inside the cocoon, transformation into the adult form occurs.

The pupal stage lasts between 5 to 10 days under optimal conditions.

4. Adult (Imago)

Adults are nectar feeders, consuming flower nectar and honeydew, making them important pollinators.

They live between 20 to 40 days, depending on environmental factors.

Females can lay between 200 and 500 eggs throughout their lifespan, starting about 5 days after emerging from the cocoon.

Key Features:

Dormancy Periods: In colder climates, green lacewings enter a state of hibernation as adults during the winter.

Predatory Abilities: Chrysoperla carnea is highly valued in biological pest control due to the effectiveness of its larvae in managing agricultural pests.

This life cycle makes the green lacewing an essential ally for farmers, particularly in organic agriculture.