Green Lacewing

Adult Green Lacewing

In the family Chrysopidae and probably in the genus Chrysoperla. Internet references are unclear on the diet of adult lacewings. It seems to depend upon the genus and species, although many sources do not clearly make this distinction. I'll play it safe and quote BugGuide: Some adults are predators, others take liquids such as honeydew, and some feed on pollen.

All sources agree that lacewing larvae (sometimes called aphid lions) are voracious predators that eat aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites, thrips, moth eggs, and other soft bodied insects. The larvae have a pair of sickle-shaped mandibles which they use to grasp and pierce prey. These mandibles are actually hollow tubes. Lacewing larvae inject enzymes that "pre-digest" their prey. They then suck out the resulting liquified insect innards.

Lacewing Larvae (Photo from July, 2007)

An aphid lion's needle-like mandibles can also pierce and inject enzymes into human skin. For most people the resulting bite will be a minor irritant -- something like a gnat bite. However, as is the case any time foreign protiens are injected into the skin, a few individuals may have an allergic reaction.

Additional sources and links:
LSU Ag Center
Cornell University

Vetch

Green Lacewing

Green Lacewing Larvae

Green Lacewing Larvae (Family Chrysopidae)

Green Lacewing larvae are considered beneficial because they are predators, preying mainly upon aphids. They are sometimes called aphidlions. They seize their prey with those pincers, injects enzymes that start dissolving the critter internally and then suck out the juices. They also can bite humans and inject those enzyme. Unless you happen to be allergic, no permanent harm will be done, but it will sting and make a red welt that will last for a few days.

I was told that this is probably the last instar and will soon pupate. Lacewings usually spin a silken cocoon on the underside of leaves. It will emerge from the cocoon as one of the delicate, winged creatures below.

Green Lacewing Larvae