Psylla alni
Psylla alni sensu lato
This record describes Psylla alni sensu lato (species). Recorded family: Psyllidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very large psyllid, 5 - 6 mm, associated with Alder. The adults are green, but may become red-brown later in the year. The wings are clear, wth dark veins. The nymphs are covered in a white waxy secretion. Baopelma foersteri is also associated with Alder, but has pale wing veins. Good quality photographs clearly showing wing venation; note host plant Common (ref.: British Bugs website; link below) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Psylloidea/Psylla_alni.html
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Alder.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common (ref.: British Bugs website; link below)
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Psylla alni sensu lato. 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 Psylla alni (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Psylla alni
What is Psylla alni?
Psylla alni (Psylla alni sensu lato) is a species in the family Psyllidae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Psylla alni found?
Habitat: On Alder.
When is Psylla alni active?
Psylla alni: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer..