View the above photo record (by Ryan Tippett) in LacewingMAP here.
Myrmeleontidae (Antlions)
Syngenes longicornis
(Rambur, 1842)
Identification
Size: Medium sized
Syngenes longicornis is an attractive species with a bold black and yellow abdomen and intricately patterned wings. The thorax and legs are covered in conspicuous bristle-like setae (hairs).
Larvae: The large larvae have a striking white colouration.
Photo by Marie Delport
Photo by Richard Johnstone
Habitat
Syngenes longicornis occupies sandy, well-wooded habitats including bushveld, Sandforest and dune forest along the East Coast of South Africa.
Photo by Ryan Tippett
Behaviour
Adults often form aggregations on the undersides of branches where they are well camouflaged against tree bark. They are occasionally attracted to lights and are active during late Summer from December to April.
The larvae live in coastal dune sand and are very active, but do not construct pits.
Photo by Ross Hawkins
Status and Distribution
Syngenes longicornis appears to be uncommon but is perhaps overlooked. This species is confined to the east coast of Southern Africa, extending from Wilderness in the south, northwards along the coastal plain to Mozambique.
Taxonomy:
Order: Neuroptera Family: Myrmeleontidae Subfamily: Myrmeleontinae Tribe: Acanthaclisini Genus: Syngenes Species: longicornis
Photo by Ryan Tippett
Further Resources
Virtual Museum (LacewingMAP > Search VM > By Scientific or Common Name)
Acknowledgements:
The use of photographs by Marie Delport, Richard Johnstone and Ross Hawkins is acknowledged. This species text has benefited enormously from comments made by Mervyn Mansell on records he has identified in LacewingMAP. We acknowledge his important contribution.
Recommended citation format for this species text:
Tippett RM 2022. Syngenes longicornis. Biodiversity and Development Institute, Cape Town.
Available online at http://thebdi.org/2023/01/03/syngenes-longicornis/
Photo by Richard Johnstone
