The Dustywings of Florida. Part. 1. Genera

Dustywings are so called for the wax found on the wings and body which is unique in the order Neuroptera. These insects are the pygmies of the order, measuring about 2-4 mm in wing length. Formerly in taxonomic confusion and considered uncommon, they are now one of the better known groups taxonomically (Meinander 1972) and are one of the most common groups of Neuroptera. Dustywings are beneficial predators, and Muma (1967) considered them important biological control agents of whiteflies and citrus mites. There are about 300 described species in the world, and 5 of these in 3 genera are found in Florida.