Boreioglycaspis melaleucae
This record describes Boreioglycaspis melaleucae (species). Recorded family: Aphalaridae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A rare example of biological control in the Psylloidea, this species was intentionally introduced into southern Florida in 2002 to control Melaleuca quinquenervia which is considered an invasive weed in the state. In 2009, the species was discovered in Los Angeles, CA on M. quinquenervia . Unlike in Florida, Melaleuca is a commonly planted ornamental tree in California and is not considered an invasive weed there.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Sternorrhyncha
- Superfamily
- Psylloidea
- Family
- Aphalaridae
- Subfamily
- Spondyliaspidinae
- Genus
- Boreioglycaspis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Native to Australia; introduced in FL, CA
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Melaleuca quinquenervia (Myrtaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Boreioglycaspis melaleucae Moore, 1964
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Boreioglycaspis melaleucae. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Boreioglycaspis melaleucae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chris Mallory; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset
Frequently Asked Questions About Boreioglycaspis melaleucae
What is Boreioglycaspis melaleucae?
Boreioglycaspis melaleucae is a species in the family Aphalaridae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Boreioglycaspis melaleucae found?
Range: Native to Australia; introduced in FL, CA
What does Boreioglycaspis melaleucae eat?
The diet of the Boreioglycaspis melaleucae includes Melaleuca quinquenervia (Myrtaceae).