| Comment number: |
|
1 |
| By: |
|
Mervyn Mansell |
| Comment: |
|
This is the larva of an owlfly (Family Ascalaphidae) possibly Proctarrelabis. Ascalaphid larvae live freely on vegetation or under rocks, where they remain motionless for long periods of time in the typical posture of "Sit and wait predators" They are extremely cryptic, both as a defence mechanism against predators and camouflage to conceal them from their own prey. Eggs are laid in batches and the larvae often remain together and catch fast-moving prey - often sharing in the capture and consumption of a prey item. Unusual to find them on sand, unless it was seeking a pupation site. |
| Date: |
|
2018-01-17 18:40:49 |
| Species name: |
|
FAMILY Ascalaphidae -- Unidentified Ascalaphidae |
| Species code: |
|
320480 |
|
