Bug Identifier
Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)
Community identification

Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)

Family Chrysopidae

Order & Family
Order Neuroptera, Family Chrysopidae
Size
3 to 10 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and shrublands worldwide

Diet & Feeding

Generalist predator primarily eating aphids, mites, thrips, and small caterpillars

Behavior Patterns

The larvae pile dead prey insects and environmental debris onto their backs using hooked bristles to camouflage themselves from predators and sneak up on prey.

Risks & Benefits

Extremely beneficial for biological pest control in gardens and crops. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if handled.