PestMedium Severity

Lerp Psyllids

Glycaspis species, G. brimblecombi (redgum lerp psyllid)

Plant juice-sucking insects that create protective crystallized honeydew covers called 'lerps' during their nymphal stage. High populations can cause severe leaf drop and extensive defoliation, weakening trees and increasing susceptibility to wood-boring pests.

Peak Season: Egg laying: Primarily on succulent new growthNymphal development: Varies with temperatureAdult activity: Throughout year in mild coastal areasPopulation peaks: Following new plant growth flushesGenerations: 2-4 per year depending on climate
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Lerp psyllids showing characteristic white lerp covers on eucalyptus leaves

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

White, roundish caps (lerps) on leaves up to 1/8 inch diameter
Yellow or brownish nymphs beneath protective lerps
Copious honeydew secretion from high populations
Blackish sooty mold growing on honeydew-covered surfaces
Severe leaf drop from high psyllid populations
Light green adults with orangish and yellow blotches

Potential Damage

Extensive defoliation weakening trees
Reduced photosynthetic capacity from leaf loss
Increased tree susceptibility to wood-boring pests
Sooty mold growth reducing plant aesthetics
Economic losses in eucalyptus plantations
Stress predisposing trees to other pest and disease problems

Lifecycle

Gradual metamorphosis through egg, several nymphal stages, and adult without pupal stage. Females prefer succulent leaves and young shoots for egg laying. Young nymphs excrete honeydew, older nymphs form protective lerps. Development varies from weeks in warm weather to months in cool temperatures.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Imicide applications targeting adult and nymphal stages

2

Systemic Imisol treatments for comprehensive protection

3

Time treatments with population development

4

Monitor for population buildup on new growth

5

Address tree stress to reduce susceptibility

Recommended Mauget Products

Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against lerp psyllids.

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Imisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against lerp psyllids.

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