Protidricerus albocapitatus:
Scientists have discovered a new species of owlfly in Kerala after 134 years and named it Protidricerus albocapitatus.
- It was found in the Nedumkayam forest in Malappuram district of Kerala.
- It is a species of owlfly that belongs to the family Myrmeleontidae and order Neuroptera.
- With this addition, Kerala now hosts five known species of owlflies, and India’s total rises to 37.
- It has white tufted head and clubbed antennae.
- They belong to the order Neuroptera, comprising holometabolous insects.
- 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 and their bulging eyes.
- Some species of owlflies develop some color in their wings after their emergence.
- They become active during dusk and take flight.
- They are aerial predators feeding on other insects.
- They 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.
