Robert McLachlan FRS (10 April 1837 – 23 May 1904) was an English entomologist specializing in the study of lacewings (Neuroptera) and caddisflies (Trichoptera).
He lived his early life in Ongar, Essex, and was educated in Ilford at a private school where he developed a good knowledge of English, French and German.
[1] Due to a sizable inheritance, McLachlan was a man of independent means and devoted himself entirely to the study of entomology and other aspects of natural history.
[3] In 1855, after a broken engagement, McLachlan traveled to New South Wales, Australia and Shanghai, China to study and collect botanical materials.
An acquaintance with John Van Voorst influenced his focus on entomology and the work of Hermann August Hagen prompted him to study Neuroptera.