Common lacewing

The common lacewing (Chrysoperla carnea, formerly and incorrectly classified as Chrysopa lateralis) belongs to the order Neuroptera and the family Chrysopidae.

Adult insects have slender, light green bodies, transparent wings with intricate vein patterns, and brilliant gold-colored metallic compound eyes.

The larvae, often referred to as "aphid lions," have elongated, brown bodies covered in tubercles and bristles, which provide camouflage.

A distinctive anatomical feature is the pair of large, sickle-shaped mandibles used to grasp prey and inject digestive enzymes to liquefy the victim's tissues.

Lacewings undergo a complete metamorphosis, including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, each playing a specific role in the ecosystem.

It must be clearly stated that the common lacewing is not a plant pest; labeling it as such is a significant horticultural error based on outdated nomenclature.

This insect is actually one of the most beneficial natural predators in agricultural ecosystems, acting as a key component of integrated pest management.

The larvae are voracious feeders that hunt aphids, spider mites, thrips, and small caterpillars that actually cause damage to agricultural crops.

A single larva can consume hundreds of aphids during its development, making it a highly effective natural alternative to synthetic chemical pesticides.

Adult lacewings feed primarily on honeydew, nectar, and pollen, meaning they are completely harmless to foliage and fruit production.

Common lacewings emerge in early spring once ambient temperatures reach a threshold suitable for their development and flight activity.

They typically overwinter in the adult stage, finding shelter in dense vegetation, leaf litter, or protected structures such as sheds and garages.

Throughout the growing season, multiple generations are produced, allowing the population to respond dynamically to outbreaks of various plant pests.

The activity peaks during summer months, coinciding with the rapid reproductive cycles of aphids on vegetable and ornamental garden plants.

As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, the insects begin seeking overwintering sites, often turning to evergreen foliage or man-made shelters.

The presence of lacewings can be identified by their unique eggs, which are suspended on long, thin silk stalks attached to the undersides of leaves.

This stalked structure serves as a defensive adaptation, preventing the highly predatory newly hatched larvae from cannibalizing their siblings.

You may find the larvae active within pest colonies, where they move with surprising speed while patrolling for their next meal.

A visible sign of their activity is the presence of hollowed-out, shriveled aphid carcasses scattered across the surface of the plant foliage.

Adults are commonly attracted to artificial light sources at night and are frequently seen resting on vegetation in gardens during the evening.

Efforts should focus on conservation and augmentation of the lacewing population rather than control, as they are essential allies for any grower.

To encourage their residency, plant a variety of nectar-producing flora like dill, fennel, yarrow, or sweet alyssum to provide food for adult lacewings.

Avoid the use of broad-spectrum insecticides, especially during the active growth stages, to prevent the accidental killing of these beneficial predators.

Implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that prioritize soft, selective chemicals which are non-toxic to common lacewings.

Maintaining small areas of permanent, undisturbed ground cover helps provide the necessary habitat for lacewings to survive through the winter months.