Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)

Gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas worldwide; often found on plant leaves where prey is abundant.

Carnivorous; feeds primarily on aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and mites using hollow mandibles to suck out fluids.

Larvae of many species are known as 'trash carriers' or 'junk bugs' because they camouflage themselves by attaching debris, lichen, or the husks of their dead prey to their backs using hooked bristles.

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as a natural pest control (often called 'aphid lions'). They pose no medical risk to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a painless, harmless nip if handled.