Green Lacewing Larva

Natural Habitat

Found in gardens, crops, and various landscaped areas where prey is abundant.

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predator of aphids (hence the nickname 'aphid lion'), thrips, mites, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae have curved, sickle-shaped mandibles used to pierce prey and suck out body fluids. They are highly active hunters and some species camouflage themselves with debris or the remains of their prey.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardens as a natural pest control agent. While harmless to humans, they can occasionally give a tiny, non-toxic defensive nip if they crawl on skin.

Identified on: 3/27/2026