A New Look at Adaptive Body Coloration and Color Change in “Common Green Lacewings” of the Genus Chrysoperla (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

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Abstract Green lacewings in the genus Chrysoperla are not always green. They can be yellow (autosomal recessive mutant); change from whitish-yellow to green as young adults; or temporarily turn yellowish, reddish, or brown during diapause. New findings on a yellow mutant in a natural population in southern California and on species-specific diapause coloration are presented, old findings are reviewed, and the adaptive value of color variability and color change in the genus is discussed.