Brown lacewing larvae are approximately 1/3 of an inch or less in length and resemble tiny alligators. Larvae have elongated bodies that taper off towards both ends. They are grayish brown with white spots along the sides of the body. They have distinct black pointy legs and small, sickle-shaped mouthparts (Figure 2).

Brown lacewing species deposit eggs directly onto vegetation, without stalks. Eggs are deposited on vegetation in areas where prey will likely be abundant as larvae emerge. Lacewing larvae develop through three instars, then pupate in silky, round cocoons resembling tiny cotton balls, protected by vegetation.

The brown lacewing larvae differ from green lacewing larvae in that they do not possess tubercles (a small knoblike or rounded protuberance). Both adults and larvae prey on aphids, other soft-bodied insects and mites.