Lacewing
Neuroptera: Chrysopidae

Eggs are laid in a group, but to discourage larvae from eating each other, they are each on a slender stalk, often in a spiral pattern. The larva has a flat body and has been described as spindle-shaped or alligator-like. It has large pincher-like mouthparts. One specie (Ceraeochrysa cubana), found in humid areas, carries camoflage around on its back to evade predators. The adult is light green or brown, with slender antennae, that are 2/3 as long as the body, and prominent eyes. It has two pairs of transparent, heavily-veined wings held roof like over the abdomen at rest. These are about 25% longer than the body. The insect has an overall fragile and delicate appearance and a weak, floppy-looking flight.

Life Cycle:
Complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. After hatching, the larva grows through 3 stages in 2 -3 weeks, depending on temperature. It will spin a spherical, white silk cocoon and attach it to a plant, for pupation. The adult emerges in about 5 days.

Diet:
The larvae are called 'aphid lions' because they are voracious and readily feed on aphids, mites, thrips, mealybugs small caterpillars, insect eggs, immature whiteflies, and nymph and scale insects. To devour its prey the larva pierces it with its large, sickle-shaped mandibles and sucks out the body fluids. The adults consume pollen, nectar, and honeydew from aphids and other sucking insects,some are also predacious. Avoid killing them with broadspectrum pesticides as they are beneficial.