Bug Identifier
Green Lacewing Larva (Aphid Lion)
Community identification

Green Lacewing Larva (Aphid Lion)

Chrysoperla carnea

Order & Family
Neuroptera: Chrysopidae
Size
2 mm to 10 mm (larval stage)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found globally on agricultural crops, gardens, and diverse vegetation

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Active hunters with large sickle-shaped mandibles used to impale prey and inject digestive enzymes

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and agriculture as natural pest control; can occasionally nip human skin if handled but has no medical significance