Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)
Scientific Name: Family Chrysopidae
Order & Family: Order Neuroptera, Family Chrysopidae
Size: 3 to 10 mm in length
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.
Identified on: 6/18/2026