Larval Morphology and biological data of Leucochrysa (Nodita) vignisi (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

Abstract

Leucochrysa McLachlan has two subgenera: Leucochrysa s. str. McLachlan and Nodita Navás, each one represented in Argentina by six species. Leucochrysa (Nodita) vignisi De Freitas & Penny is known for Argentina within Yungas and Paranaense regions (Jujuy, Salta, Misiones and Tucumán). However, it has also been found in agricultural ecosystems of Citrus. The biology of neotropical species of Nodita and their larvae are poorly known. In this paper, we present the first description of the external morphology of the third larval stage of Leucochrysa (Nodita) vignisi, in addition to illustrations, details of the chaetotaxy and data on its life cycle.