Abstract
Neuropterida is a monophyletic taxon composed of the orders Megaloptera (dobsonflies and alderflies), Raphidioptera (snakeflies) and Neuroptera (lacewings). This contribution presents the diversity of Megaloptera and Raphidioptera in Mexico, the lower diversity orders within Neuropterida. Some dobsonflies reach a wingspan of almost 18cm and posses tusk-like modified mandibles in males. There are little more than 328 described species worldwide. Thirteen species are distributed in Mexico, included in 5 genera in the families Corydalidae and Sialidae, which represent 3.9% of the world fauna. Raphidioptera species are characterized by their long prothorax, their hyaline wings with a distinct pterostigma and the long ovipositor of females. They are a relict group with only 240 species worldwide, in the families Inocelliidae and Raphidiidae. In Mexico there are 14 described species of 4 genera in both families, which represent 5.8% of the world fauna. Raphidiopterans seem to require a period of low temperature to complete their life cycle, which could explain the absence of snakeflies in tropical areas.
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