Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity





back to order Mecoptera		 insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: saprophagous
Immatures: unknown

Size: 12 to 20 mm
Flight : strong flier

North American
Species: 50

Mecoptera Panorpidae
Common scorpionflies

Front Wings: membranous
Hind Wings: membranous
Mouthparts: chewing
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified

Special Characteristics: Panorpids have a long snout and are usually yellowish-brown with spotted or banded wings. The male genitalia are swollen and held curved up over the end of the abdomen like the stinger of a scorpion.

Comments: Adult panorpids feed mainly on dead insects. The habits of the larvae are poorly known but they are probably scavengers. Common scorpionflies are found on various types of vegetation in open areas and forests.

Species:
Panorpa subsurcata

Common Name:

Distribution: