PSYLLID

PSYLLID
Psyllids have the same size and shape as aphids, but with a shorter antenna. They also lack the cornicles that protrude from the rear of the aphid. They can be up to 1/8th inch in size, and nymphs may resemble a scale insect. They range in color from light green to brown. Also unlike aphids, they are active hoppers and are sometimes called plant lice. Psyllids are a serious plant pest, feeding on the plant’s juices.

The Pepper Tree Psyllid attacks the leaves on pepper trees, deforming young leaves and causing depressions on older leaves, which leads to premature leaf drop. The Redgum Lerp Psyllid attacks eucalyptus trees, leading to the death of the tree. It has been a serious pest in recent years, forming a protective covering of wax and honeydew called a “lerp.” The Bluegum Psyllid also attacks eucalyptus. The Eugenia Psyllid attacks the leaves of shrubs, also deforming leaves and causing them to drop. Acacia Psyllids occur on the leaves, terminal shoots, and flower buds of many Acacia trees. Most plants will tolerate extensive psyllid feeding, but some infestations will kill the host.

Life Cycle
1.Antenna- elongate, hair like 2.Eyes- compound 3.Head- has stylet 4.Legs- 6 5.Wings- clear,w/long thick veins 6.Thorax- yes 7.Petiole- none 8.Abdomen- large and rounded 9.Color- black to green 10.Other- resemble cicadas Life Cycle Females lay tiny eggs on succulent leaves and young shoots in scattered groups. The eggs that hatch develop through about five wingless nymphal stages before becoming winged adults. Nymphs will enlarge their lerp as they grow, or they move and form a new covering. The nymphs spend most of their time covered beneath the lerp. Adults live on the foliage, not under lerp covers. All life stages can be present throughout the year, although in lower numbers during the winter. Development time from egg to adult varies from several weeks during warm weather to several months during the cool season. Several generations can form each year.