Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, orchards, crops, and various landscaped areas with high Aphid populations

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predator of aphids, mites, scale insects, and other soft-bodied garden pests

Behavior Patterns

Many species carry debris like insect husks, lichens, and dust on their backs for camouflage; they use large, sickle-shaped mandibles to grab and inject enzymes into prey

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem as biological pest control; they may occasionally pinch or 'bite' human skin if handled, causing minor irritation, but are not medically significant

Identified on: 2/24/2026