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Lacewing larvae, called aphis lions, feed voraciously
on aphids, thrips, mites, small larvae, and other soft-bodied insects or eggs. Adults of
one species are greenish or yellowish green, with delicate lace-like wings and golden
eyes. They are about 25 mm long. Larvae have elongated, spindle-shaped mandibles that
distinguish them from ladybird beetle larvae. Lacewing larvae use their mouthparts to
puncture bodies of prey and extract body fluids. Lacewing eggs on silken stalks are
about 12 mm above the surfaces of leaves or stems to which they are attached. The stalks
may protect the eggs from natural enemies, particularly lacewing larvae. Larvae feed on
aphids and other small insects. |
