Green Lacewing Larva (Aphid Lion)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas with low-lying vegetation; occasionally found indoors by accident.

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predators of soft-bodied insects like aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and insect eggs.

Behavior Patterns

Active hunters that use sickle-shaped mandibles to inject paralyzing fluid into prey; some species camouflage themselves with debris or the husks of their victims.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as natural pest control; harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a painless, non-venomous 'nip' if handled.

Identified on: 3/24/2026