Psyllids (psyllidae): are small insects that suck nutrients from the plant, causing defoliation and malformations, especially in new shoots. They present a high specificity in hosts, as in ficus, eucalyptus or pear tree.
Like other insects, they secrete honeydew and can cause the formation of the bold fungus. Some species secrete cottony substances or also substances that crystallize (lerps), which serve as a protection shield against external agents. They can also be vectors of disease.
Glycaspis brimblecombei
Winter
Spring
Summer
Autumn
About 2-3mm in size, it specifically attacks the genus Eucalyptus. After spawning, the N1 nymphs move along the leaf until they settle (N2-N5), where they create a sugary shield that protects them while they feed by sucking sap, with a strong secretion of honeydew. The high flight capacity of the adult will allow it to oviposit on other trees which, together with its 3-5 annual cycles, allows it to disperse very quickly. As a result, yellowing and leaf fall will be observed, which leads to a general weakening, which favors the attack of other pests such as Gonipterus, Phorancantha, or fungi, even causing death.
Macrohomotoma gladiata
Winter
Spring
Summer
Autumn
With a size of 2-3mm, it mainly attacks the genus Ficus, and particularly Ficus microcarpa (=Ficus nitida). They present 3-5 generations per year in temperate climates. After spawning, there are 5 nymphal instars (N1-N5), which feed on the plant, especially on the young shoots, causing leaf curling and honeydew secretion. From N3, waxy secretions will also be produced, which give the glass a cottony appearance. They will end as imagos, closing the cycle with a new start. Successive attacks cause serious defoliation, completely drying up parts of the crown, and can cause serious decay that can lead to the death of the specimen, when adding other pathologies. As they are evergreen species, the insect can be active all year round if the weather allows it.