
Community identification
Green Lacewing Larva (Aphid Lion)
Chrysoperla carnea
- Order & Family
- Neuroptera: Chrysopidae
- Size
- 2 mm to 10 mm (larval stage)
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