The most primitive of the Endopterygote insects, the Megaloptera look similar to the lacewings but with spotted wings and a soft and flexible abdomen. They live around clear streams although some species can survive in swamps and muddied waters. The adults do not eat much and only have a short lifespan. The eggs are laid in clusters on plants or rocks overhanging water bodies. Their predatory larvae live in the freshwater and look like beetle larvae; with hardened heads and jointed legs. These larvae also have long filaments on the side.
We haven’t found any Megalopterans yet 🙁
References:
Gooderham, John & Tsyrlin, Edward 2002, The waterbug book : a guide to the freshwater macroinvertebrates of temperate Australia, CSIRO ; London : Eurospan, Collingwood, Vic
Naumann, I. D & Naumann, I. D & CSIRO. Division of Entomology 1991, The Insects of Australia : a textbook for students and research workers, 2nd ed, Melbourne University Press, Carlton South, Vic