Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid
Trioza brevigenae
This record describes Trioza brevigenae (species). Recorded family: Triozidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Other species, including thrips, mealybugs, and spiders may also induce leaf-rolling on the same plants, though in these cases the leaf is not as tightly rolled. Additionally, nymphs of a second species of psyllid have been discovered in association with the rolled leaves; these small (under 1mm) nymphs are found on the outside of the rolled leaves in shallow pits, though the adults have not yet been recorded.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
India; adventive in so. CA (first recorded in February 2016)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Ficus microcarpa
Life History
Feeding causes leaves to become tightly rolled; peeling back the rolled leaves reveals the fairly elongate nymphs.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Trioza brevigenae Mathur, 1973
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Trioza brevigenae. 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 Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chris Mallory
Frequently Asked Questions About Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid
What is Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid?
Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid (Trioza brevigenae) is a species in the family Triozidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid?
2.6-2.8mm
Where is Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid found?
Range: India; adventive in so. CA (first recorded in February 2016)
What does Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid eat?
The diet of the Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid includes Ficus microcarpa.
What is the life cycle of a Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid?
Feeding causes leaves to become tightly rolled; peeling back the rolled leaves reveals the fairly elongate nymphs.