Brown Lacewing (Larva / Debris-carrying stage)
Scientific Name: Family Hemerobiidae (various species)
Order & Family: Order Neuroptera; Family Hemerobiidae
Size: 3 mm to 10 mm (approximately 0.1 to 0.4 inches)
Natural Habitat
Found on trees, shrubs, and garden plants throughout most of the world.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; feeds primarily on aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae of some species are known as 'trash bugs' or 'junk bugs'. They use hooked hairs on their backs to attach organic debris, lichen, and the husks of their prey to themselves as camouflage from predators and to sneak up on prey.
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and gardens. They act as natural pest control, significantly reducing populations of harmful plant parasites.
Identified on: 3/23/2026