Owlflies : Rare Flies
A rare species of owlfly species Glyptobasis dentifera has been rediscovered after 75 years from Kerala by researchers.
- Owlflies come under Order Neuroptera, which includes holometabolous insects while the dragonflies come under Order Odonata, which includes hemimetabolous insects.
- These are misidentified as dragonflies by non-taxonomists because of their morphological resemblance.
- During the day, adult owlflies perch on blades of grass growing in lateritic soils and also in village households, surrounded by dense vegetation.
- The two distinguishing characteristics of owlflies are their long, clubbed antennae (nearly as long as the body) and their bulging eyes.
- Some species of owlflies develop some color in their wings after their emergence.
- Adult owlflies are aerial predators feeding on other insects. When disturbed, some owlflies release a strong, musk-like chemical to deter enemies.
- Usually lay their eggs in groups at the tips of limbs and twigs.
- The female creates a protective shield below the eggs in order to prevent predators from reaching them.
- Initially, owlfly larvae are usually found in the soil, or in trees where they live in clusters for defensive purposes.
