The Ant-lions Of Florida. II. Genera Based On Larvae

Ant-lion larvae are important predators in sand and certain special habitats such as dry tree hollows and cave mouths. Wheeler (1930) called them “demons of the dust”, whereas children in the southern United States coined the term “doodlebugs” to describe their antics. Although most people associate them with the funnel-shaped pitfall traps, most of the genera have other habits often reflected by their movements which can be very fast across the surface of the sand (Brachynemurus); slow, creeping movements (Dendroleon); or fast backward movements under the sand (Vella). Nine genera are known in Florida, and the larvae of 8 genera have been identified (Abatoleon Banks is unknown.).