
Community identification
Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)
Chrysoperla spp.
- Order & Family
- Neuroptera, Chrysopidae
- Size
- 1 mm to 6 mm typically
Natural Habitat
Found globally in gardens, crops, and various vegetation where prey is abundant.
Diet & Feeding
Voracious predators of soft-bodied insects like aphids, mites, scale, and thrips.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae carry bits of debris, dust, and the carcasses of their prey on their backs for camouflage. They are extremely active hunters.
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial to humans as biological pest control in gardens and agriculture. They rarely bite humans unless handled, and even then, only cause minor irritation.