
Community identification
Green Lacewing Larva (Aphid Lion)
Chrysoperla spp.
- Order & Family
- Neuroptera: Chrysopidae
- Size
- 1 to 10 mm (0.04 to 0.4 inches) in length.
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.