Brown Lacewing (Larva stage)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, forests, and agricultural fields; often found on leaves of plants with high aphid populations.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds primarily on aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and mites.

Behavior Patterns

Active predators known as 'aphid lions'; they use sickle-shaped mandibles to grab prey and suck out body fluids. They undergo complete metamorphosis through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

Risks & Benefits

Extremely beneficial for gardens and crops as biological pest control; they are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic defensive nip if handled.

Identified on: 1/9/2026