
Community identification
Green Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)
Family Chrysopidae
- Order & Family
- Order Neuroptera: Family Chrysopidae
- Size
- 1 - 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found globally in gardens, forests, crops, and meadows where aphids are present
Diet & Feeding
Aggressive predator consuming aphids, mites, scale insects, and small caterpillars using hollow mandibles
Behavior Patterns
Known as 'trash carriers' or 'junk bugs' because they camouflage themselves by attaching debris and sucked-dry insect carcasses to their backs using hooked hairs
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial for biological pest control in gardens and agriculture; can occasionally give a harmless but sharp defensive nip to human skin if handled