Major Group: Insecta Order: Neuroptera Family: Nevrorthidae (Neurorthidae is in common useage but is incorrect) Genus: Austroneurorthus Species: bruneipennis This family is represented in Australia by a single species, Austroneurorthus bruneipennis Esben-Petersen. |
Descriptive Features: very slender, elongate, strongly sclerotized
head and 'neck' elongate, head longer than wide, and may be strongly reflexed dorsally
antennae scarcely longer than head capsule
mandible and maxilla broad at base, tapered apically, about the same length as head capsule and abruptly curved medially at apex
ventral surface of head closed by apparent true gula
7 stemmata
legs moderately long
all thoracic and abdominal segments with few long setae, these most concentrated in lateral groups toward posterior of each segment
very long setae near apex of abdomen
Total length: 10 – 12 mm
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Austroneurorthus bruneipennis |
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Taxonomic Checklist: Austroneurorthus bruneipennis Esben-Petersen |
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Distribution: SE Qld, SE NSW, SE Vic
Sensitivity Rating: SIGNAL grade 9
Functional Feeding Group: predators |
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Kangaroo River, Kangaroo Valley NSW |
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Ecology: Instream habitat: Austroneurorthus bruneipennis larvae occur in fast-flowing streams and in moist litter. They are presumed to be bottom dwellers. Feeding ecology: Larvae are predators feeding on a variety of small benthic invertebrates. Habit: Larvae are fast active swimmers. Life history:
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Information Sources: New 1991, 2004 |
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