Larval Stages of European Nemopterinae, with Systematic Considerations on the Family Nemopteridae (Insecta, Neuroptera)

Abstract

Larval development of the European Nemoptera bipennis and Lertha sofiae have been completed in the laboratory, the morphology of their egg and larval instars are described. New data on their larval behaviour and biology, as embrionary development time, larval feeding preferences, way and number of moultings, strategies in their development time and pupation are given. Some new data on their distribution and biology as flying activity, food, periodicity and number of layed eggs and longevity are noted. Based on obvious differences in larval morphology and biology of Nemopterinae, in regard to Crocinae and other nearest Neuroptera families, some aspects of their systematic position and relationships are commented, and both subfamilies should be considered with family rank.