Antlions, Owlflies, and Allies (Superfamily Myrmeleontoidea)

Superfamily Myrmeleontoidea is a taxonomic group of net-winged insects within the order Neuroptera and suborder Myrmeleontiformia. It includes several families of insects, most notably antlions (Myrmeleontidae), owlflies (Ascalaphidae), and spoon-winged lacewings (Nemopteridae), although its exact composition may vary among classification systems. Members are found worldwide in habitats such as forests, grasslands, deserts, and other terrestrial environments. They typically possess two pairs of delicate, membranous wings with intricate networks of veins, elongated bodies, and well-developed sensory structures. Many species are predatory, feeding on ants, termites, aphids, and other small arthropods. Their larvae often live in soil, leaf litter, or concealed terrestrial habitats, where they capture prey using specialized mouthparts. Some antlion larvae construct funnel-shaped pits in sandy ground to trap passing insects, while other members actively hunt or ambush prey. Myrmeleontoidea contributes to terrestrial ecosystems by regulating populations of small invertebrates and maintaining ecological balance.