Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (often called junk bug or trash bug)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and occasionally indoors on houseplants; basically anywhere aphids are present.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; feeds voraciously on soft-bodied insects like aphids, thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and insect eggs.

Behavior Patterns

These larvae construct camouflaging shields on their backs using the empty husks of their prey, bits of lichen, moss, or other debris. This behavior protects them from predators like birds and larger insects.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Highly beneficial for gardens and agriculture as natural pest control. Risks: Harmless to humans, though they can occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous nip if handled.

Identified on: 2/25/2026