Bug Identifier
Green lacewing larva (Debris carrier type)
Community identification

Green lacewing larva (Debris carrier type)

Family Chrysopidae

Order & Family
Order Neuroptera, Family Chrysopidae
Size
2 mm to 10 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found on a variety of plants, shrubs, and trees in gardens, crops, and orchards.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist predator feeding on aphids, mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

Known as 'trash bugs' or 'junk bugs' because they camouflage themselves by attaching the husks of their prey and other debris to their backs using hooked bristles.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and gardens as natural pest control. While harmless to humans, they may occasionally provide a tiny, non-venomous defensive pinch if handled.