Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, orchards, crops, and areas with dense vegetation across various climates

Diet & Feeding

Mainly aphids but also feeds on mealybugs, spider mites, leafhoppers, and various insect eggs

Behavior Patterns

Active hunters that use the 'debris-carrying' strategy. They use hooked bristles on their backs to attach the remains of their prey, dead leaves, and lichen to camouflage themselves from predators and sneak up on prey.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and agriculture as natural pest controllers. They pose no significant risk to humans, though they can occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous 'pinch' or bite if handled.

Identified on: 3/21/2026