Why in news
Researchers have found two poorly known antlion species of Myrmeleontidae family of order Neuroptera from India, Thailand, and Vietnam.
They are Pseudoformicaleo nubecula and Creoleon cinnamomeus.
The research team of the Shadpada Entomology Research Lab, Christ College (Autonomous), Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, Kerala are behind the findings
Antlion
Adults of antlions are misidentified as damselflies by non-taxonomists because of their morphological resemblance.
Antlions can be easily distinguished by their long distinct antennae.
The antlions are a group of about 2,000 species of insect in the neuropteran family Myrmeleontidae.
They are known for the predatory habits of their larvae, which mostly dig pits in loose dry soil to trap passing ants or other prey
Antlions are commonly known by their pit-building habit.
The adult insects are less well known due to their relatively short lifespans compared to the larvae.
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