Chrysoperla carnea begins its life cycle with a unique 'song'. The adult male creates low-frequency vibrations by oscillating its abdomen, which is met with identical vibrations from the female. This duet, lasting a few minutes, allows them to recognize each other as members of the same species, facilitating mating.
Lacewings go through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Egg Stage (3-4 days): A female lacewing lays approximately 100 to 300 eggs in its lifetime, with the number depending on diet and environmental conditions. Eggs are typically deposited on the undersides of leaves, often near aphids or other potential prey. Each egg is placed at the end of a slender stalk, a feature believed by entomologists to defend against predators.
Larval Stage (2 weeks): Larvae hatch 3-4 days later and exhibit an intense appetite, resorting to cannibalism if other food sources are scarce. They progress through three larval stages, each more aggressive than the last, with the third instar being particularly voracious.
Pupal Stage (1 week): Progressing from the third instar, the Chrysoperla carnea larva undergoes a significant transformation during its pupal stage, typically lasting about a week. In this metamorphosis period, the larva develops into an adult, often inside a silken cocoon attached to a leaf or twig.
Adult Stage (4-6 weeks): Upon emerging from the cocoon, the adult lacewing's primary focus is reproduction. They feed on nectar, pollen, and honeydew and live for approximately 4-6 weeks. During this time, they mate, and eggs are laid, thus continuing the life cycle.
