orange-headed lacewing
Nothochrysa capitata
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Gintautas Steiblys, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Gintautas Steiblys
Overview
The bruinrode gaasvlieg (Nothochrysa capitata) is a delicate lacewing species characterized by its distinctive brownish-red coloration and intricate wing venation patterns. As both larvae and adults, these insects serve as important predators of aphids and other soft-bodied insects, making them valuable natural pest controllers in their ecosystems.
The bruinrode gaasvlieg faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanization across its European range. Climate change and pesticide use in agricultural areas further compound pressures on this lacewing species, affecting both adult populations and their prey base of aphids and other small insects.
Habitat
This species inhabits deciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, parks, and gardens with abundant vegetation. It is particularly associated with areas rich in aphids and other small insects that serve as prey, including agricultural landscapes and semi-natural habitats with diverse plant communities.
Other threatened species in Chrysopidae
Threatened in Austria
Frequently asked questions
Why is orange-headed lacewing classified as Vulnerable?
Where does orange-headed lacewing live?
What are the main threats to orange-headed lacewing?
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