Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug or Aphid Lion)

Gardens, agricultural fields, orchards, and forest edges worldwide.

Carnivorous generalist predator; primarily eats aphids, mealybugs, scales, and mites.

Larvae carry bits of plant matter, lichen, or the exoskeletons of their prey on their backs for camouflage. They are highly active hunters with large sickle-shaped mandibles used to suck out the insides of prey.

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as natural biological pest control. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if they land on skin.