Climaciella brunnea

C. brunnea has a triangular head with large compound eyes and a broad frons. It has straight antennae and raptorial forelegs similar in shape and function to those of mantises (order Mantodea), an example of convergent evolution. The wings typically have dark brown margins with transparent inner areas. Adults measure 20–30 mm in length. Its markings mimic those of wasps in the genus Polistes. The species exhibits considerable color polymorphism, with different populations resembling locally occurring wasp species. ==Taxonomy==

Climaciella brunnea belongs to the genus Climaciella within the family Mantispidae. It is part of the order Neuroptera, commonly known as the net-winged insects. ==Distribution==

Climaciella brunnea is found in Canada, the United States, and as far south as Nicaragua. ==Behaviour==

Adults are often found resting on vegetation or flowers in forest clearings, where they ambush prey or feed on nectar. As a result, the species may act as an incidental pollinator. Climaciella brunnea is frequently observed in aggregations rather than as solitary individuals. These aggregations are believed to form in response to male-produced pheromones and are associated with mating and feeding. When disturbed, adults display defensive behaviours that enhance their resemblance to stinging wasps. These include curling the abdomen beneath the body and raising it vertically while swaying, reinforcing their mimicry. ==Life cycle==

First instar larvae are campodeiform and exhibit phoretic behaviour to locate a spider host. C. brunnea specializes on lycosid spiders. Larvae possess a caudal sucker, which they use to attach to substrates. Once attached, they raise their bodies and wave them back and forth for a short period. The larva feeds on the spider's hemolymph and later enters the egg sac, where it consumes the eggs using specialized mouthparts. ==Reproduction==

Males attract females using a distinctive pheromone and engage in an elaborate courtship display, repeatedly spreading and raising the wings while extending the raptorial forelegs. This behaviour may continue for several minutes if the female does not respond. Pairs may remain in copulation for up to a day. After mating, the male deposits a spermatophore, which the female absorbs over several days before fertilizing her eggs. Eggs are laid in small crescent-shaped clusters. ==Gallery==

File:Climaciella brunnea - Wasp Mantidfly.JPG File:Climaciella brunnea - Wasp Mantidfly.jpg File:Wasp Mantidfly (29954315340).jpg ==References==