Hoverfly Larva (Syrphid Fly Larva)

Commonly found on garden plants, crops, and trees where aphids are present

Most species are predaceous, primarily consuming aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects

The larvae move with a slug-like, undulating motion and use their mouths to seize and drain the fluids from their prey; they often remain camouflaged on the underside of leaves

Extremely beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as biological pest control for aphids; adults are also important pollinators