Community identification
Green lacewing larva (aphid lion)
Chrysopidae larva, likely Chrysoperla species
- Order & Family
- Neuroptera; Chrysopidae
- Size
- Typically 3–10 mm as young larvae; mature larvae reach about 8–12 mm, depending on species.
Natural Habitat
Vegetation, leaf litter, gardens, and agricultural habitats, especially where aphids or other small arthropods occur.
Diet & Feeding
Predatory; pierces and sucks aphids, mites, thrips, whiteflies, insect eggs, and other soft-bodied prey.
Behavior Patterns
Actively hunts on plants, often at night, and may carry debris or prey remains on its back for camouflage. It later pupates in a silken cocoon and emerges as an adult lacewing.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people and pets. Highly beneficial biological-control predators that suppress garden and crop pests.