Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva / Junk Bug

Natural Habitat

Gardens, orchards, and agricultural fields; often found on plants with high aphid populations.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous; feeds on aphids, mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae use hooked hairs on their backs to attach biological debris (such as leaf bits or the carcasses of their prey) to create 'trash' packets for camouflage and protection from predators like ants.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to humans as biological pest control for gardens. They have no significant risks, though they can occasionally give a tiny, non-venomous 'nip' to human skin if handled.

Identified on: 1/14/2026