Green lacewings are delicate green insects of the family Chrysopidae with large, net-veined wings. The adults of the commonly sold Chrysoperla species feed on nectar, pollen and honeydew. Their larvae, often called aphid lions, are voracious generalist predators with sickle-shaped jaws that eat aphids, thrips, whitefly nymphs, mite eggs and small caterpillars.
In practice
Growers buy lacewings as eggs on cards or as young larvae in a carrier and distribute them near pest colonies. Larvae hunt for two to three weeks before pupating. Because they eat almost anything small, including each other and other beneficials, they are best used as a strike force on aphid hot spots rather than as the only programme. Eggs sit on hair-like stalks, which is how growers recognise wild lacewings outdoors. Avoid broad-spectrum sprays where they are active.
Don't confuse with
- Ladybird larvae: stockier, spiny, usually dark with orange marks.
- Brown lacewings: a related family with similar predatory larvae.
- Syrphid fly larvae: legless maggots that also eat aphids.
