Snake-flies, alderflies, lacewings and scorpion flies in Essex
Etymology
Apparently from the Latin humus = earth or soil which, together with the possessive termination
"-inus", meaning "of the earth".
Hemerobius stigma Stephens, 1836
National status: Common (Common)
Predicted county status: Common/-
Distribution
Almost certainly under-recorded and likely to be
present wherever pine trees grow.
Habitat and ecology
The larvae are associated with pine trees
especially, but not exclusively, Scots Pine, and
prey on pine aphids. Adults are easily beaten from
pine branches and also come readily to light traps;
there are probably two generations per year,
peaking in April and September, but adults can
be found in most months from March to
September depending on the season.
Threats
None perceived.
Etymology
From Latin, via Greek stigma =
a mark, and relating to the prominent orange-coloured pterostigmata.
Hemerobius atrifrons McLachlan, 1868
National status: Local (Local)
Predicted county status: Extinct/ ?
Distribution
Apparently absent. The only county record is
from Colchester in 1912.
Habitat and ecology
Confined to Larch Larix decidua from which
adults may be easily beaten. See also the entry
for Wesmaelius quadrifasciatus, below.
Threats
Not applicable, but the species would be regarded
as Essex Endangered if it were to be found again.
Etymology
From the Latin ater = black, combined with the
Latin frons = forehead; this species is characterised
by its glossy black frons.
Essex Naturalist (New Series) 17 (2000)
J 97