Insecticides are a threat to species within the Order Neuroptera.
Often called the "nerve-winged insects" because of the elaborate pattern of longitudinal and cross-veins (nerves) in the four wings of adults. These insects undergo complete metamorphosis with an egg, larva, pupa and winged adult. The larval stage is typically a grotesque, wingless creature with long, sicklelike jaws. Pupation usually occurs in a silken cocoon; however, the silk is not derived from modified salivary glands as in most insects, but is produced by the Malpighian tubules and is spun from the anus. The order includes many predaceous, night-flying species, including lacewings, alderflies, snakeflies and dobsonflies. The immature or larval stage of dobsonflies, called hellgrammites, are familiar to fishermen and fisherwomen because they are commonly used as bait. One curious member of the order, called a mantispid, shows a striking resemblance to a miniature preying mantis with enlarged, grasping front legs.
Many species within Neuroptera and the threats that they face have yet to be evaluated.