Lacewings are insects in the order Neuroptera, suborder
Planipennia. Lacewings are named after the fine,
complex, cross-branched venation of their four wings,
which presents a beautiful, lacelike pattern. Lacewings
are rather poor, fluttery fliers. When at rest, they hold
their wings tentlike over their back.
Lacewings have a complete metamorphosis, with
four life history stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The
eggs of lacewings are laid on vegetation, and occur
singly at the end of a long stalk. The aquatic larvae are
predators of other invertebrates. The larvae of some
species of lacewings cover themselves with organic debris
as a form of protective camouflage.