A taxonomic review of the family Myrmeleontidae Latreille (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontiformia) from the Korean peninsula, highlighting the conservation value of this family

The family Myrmeleontidae Latreille (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontiformia) is taxonomically reviewed from South Korea. The Myrmeleontidae was a group that had received only limited attention from researchers in Korea, and the most recent taxonomic study of Korean Myrmeleontidae was conducted by Okamoto (1926). In this study, 16 species in 11 genera are identified, with four species (Distoleon littoralis Miller & Stange, 1999, Myrmeleon immanis Walker, 1853, Paraglenurus albiventris Matsumoto, Kikuta & Hayashi, 2021, and Paraglenurus melanostictus Matsumoto, Kikuta & Hayashi, 2021) reported for the first time in Korea.

A comprehensive re-examination and visual documentation of all Korean species of Myrmeleontidae is conducted. A key to the tribes, genera, and species of Korean antlions is provided. Descriptions and illustrations of ten antlion larvae, including five from the tribe Myrmeleontini, are also provided.

Based on the biological information from this study, the current distribution patterns and conservation value of the Myrmeleontidae in South Korea are discussed.