Junk Bug (Lacewing Larva)

Scientific Name: Chrysopa spp. / Hemerobius spp.

Order & Family: Neuroptera / Chrysopidae (Green Lacewings) or Hemerobiidae (Brown Lacewings)

Size: Typically 1–10 mm in length (excluding their camouflage debris)

Junk Bug (Lacewing Larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and shrubberies; often found on leaves or stems where aphids are present.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; feeds voraciously on aphids, mealybugs, thrips, mites, and insect eggs. Often called 'Aphid Lions'.

Behavior Patterns

The larva covers its back with a customized 'backpack' of debris, including the carcasses of its prey, lichen, and bits of leaf, using silk. This serves as camouflage and protection from predators.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Highly beneficial to ecosystem and agriculture as a natural pest control agent. Risks: Harmless to humans and structures; occasionally may give a minor, harmless nip if handled, but not venomous/dangerous.

Identified on: 2/17/2026