antlions

Antlions are predatory insects belonging to the order Neuroptera. The name "antlion" most commonly refers to the larval stage of insects in the family Myrmeleontidae. These larvae are well-known for their unique hunting strategy, particularly species that live in dry, sandy environments.

The most characteristic behavior of many antlion larvae is the construction of conical pits in loose sand. They will burrow backward into the sand, dragging their body to create a funnel shape. Once the pit is complete, the antlion larva will bury itself at the bottom, with only its powerful jaws exposed. It then waits for small insects, primarily ants, to wander too close to the edge of the pit. If an ant stumbles and begins to slide down the sandy slope, the antlion will flick sand at it, causing more sand to dislodge and accelerating the prey's descent. When the prey reaches the bottom, the antlion seizes it with its sickle-shaped mandibles, injects digestive enzymes, and sucks out the liquefied body contents.

Adult antlions, in contrast to their larvae, are typically winged insects resembling damselflies or dragonflies, though they are generally more robust and have longer, more prominent antennae. Adults are also predatory but hunt in a different manner, often catching flying insects on the wing. They are less commonly observed than their larval counterparts. The life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The larval stage can last for several years, while the adult stage is relatively short-lived, focused on reproduction.