PEST
 
   NAME
     Pimple Psyllid
     Trioza eugeniae
 
   ORDER
     Hemiptera
 
   FAMILY
     Psyllidae

Description of the Pest
The adult is a 2mm long winged lerp insect. Nymphal stages are initially mobile, selecting a site to settle down and feed by sucking sap from the underside of the leaves. Leaves develop bright red “pimples” or galls on the upper surfaces, corresponding to the points at which feeding occurs on the lower leaf surface.

Laurel Psyllid (Trioza alacris) is a European species, where the eggs are laid on the leaf margins and the nymphs make them curl. 

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
This psyllid is found in tropical to warm temperate regions, particularly on the coast. 

Life Cycle
This insect has a Hemimetabolous life cycle, ie. When the immature nymphs resemble the adults.
Five nymphal stages occur before the adult stage.

Period of Activity
Most activity occurs in Spring, when new growth is attacked, although the larvae may feed from Autumn, through Winter, to Spring.

Damage Caused
Leaves are distorted and disfigured by the galls. However, the plant’s growth is not usually impaired but in heavy infestations die back can occur.

Susceptible Plants
Lillypillies (especially Syzygium australae, S.coolminianum and. S. paniculatum).

Cultural Control
No satisfactory controls.

Biological Control
Natural predators make little difference to numbers.

Chemical Control
Not normally indicated; nursery stock may be sprayed with systemic insecticides as soon as the pest is detected.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.