Hyboptera

Hyboptera (sometimes incorrectly referred to as Hypoptera) is an obsolete taxonomic grouping historically used to classify certain families of Neuroptera (net-winged insects). The term was used to describe neuropteran insects whose wings were considered intermediate in form between those of the Planipennia (e.g., lacewings) and the Mecoptera (scorpionflies). The term is largely unused in modern entomology and classifications due to advances in phylogenetic analysis and a more refined understanding of neuropteran relationships. Modern classifications emphasize cladistic relationships rather than relying on perceived morphological intermediates. The families that were once placed within Hyboptera are now distributed among other suborders and families within Neuroptera based on phylogenetic analyses of morphological and molecular data. The concept of Hyboptera is primarily of historical interest in understanding the evolution of insect classification.