The taxonomy, life histories, and mating behavior of the green lacewings of Strawberry Canyon (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

Six species of chrysopids belonging to three genera occur in Strawberry Canyon, University of California, Berkeley. They are Chrysopa carnea Stephens, C. nigricornis Burmeister, C. quadripunctata Burmeister, Meleoma comata Banks, M. cavifrons Banks, and Nothochrysa californica Banks. Keys are presented to aid in distinguishing the adults and larvae of the species. Taxonomic descriptions are given for stages which have not been described previously in literature. Life history studies for the six species reveal many similarities; however, the differences are emphasized. The eggs, larvae, and cocoons are described. The adult food and prerequisites for mating are discussed. Detailed descriptions of the sequences of mating behavior for each species are given. Oviposition behavior is recorded for two genera as well as oviposition patterns for all the genera. The work described here was supported by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.