Abstract
The mouthparts of the spoon-winged lacewing Nemoptera sinuata are adapted for the uptake of pollen and nectar. Form
and function of the mouthparts are described, and the technique of food uptake is discussed in context with flower-visiting behaviour
and floral architecture of the preferred flowers. The maxillae are the main organs for food uptake. The brush-shaped laciniae, galeae
and maxillary palpi form a functional unit which can be extended by the action of the cardo-stipes joint. Video analyses of the
mouthpart movements distinguished different patterns of maxillary motions which occur in nectar feeding or pollen collecting. The
flower-visiting behaviour and the specialised mouthparts of the Nemopteridae are derived traits which probably evolved from predatory
and biting/chewing mouthparts within the Neuroptera.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 267-277 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | European Journal of Entomology |
Volume | 105 |
Issue number | 2 |
Publication status | Published - 2008 |
Austrian Fields of Science 2012
- 106054 Zoology
- 106046 Animal anatomy