Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)
Scientific Name: Ceraeochrysa spp.
Order & Family: Neuroptera: Chrysopidae
Size: 3 mm to 10 mm (excluding the debris packet)
Natural Habitat
Found on various plants, shrubs, and trees in gardens, forests, and agricultural areas.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist predator that feeds on soft-bodied insects like aphids, mites, thrips, and scale insects.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae exhibit camouflaging behavior by placing the remains of their prey and other environmental debris (like lichen or plant material) on their backs using curved hairs called stalks to hide from predators.
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as they are effective natural pest controllers; they are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally nip if handled.
Identified on: 12/30/2025