
Community identification
Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)
Family Chrysopidae (Larva)
- Order & Family
- Order: Neuroptera, Family: Chrysopidae
- Size
- 1 mm to 10 mm
Natural Habitat
Found on various plants, shrubs, and garden vegetation where prey is abundant.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist predator feeding on aphids, mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.
Behavior Patterns
The larva camouflages itself by attaching debris, such as the carcasses of its prey and lichen, to its back via specialized hooked hairs.
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial for biological pest control in gardens; may give a minor, harmless nip to human skin if handled.