Hackberry Psyllids

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pachypsylla: //ˌpækiˈsɪlə//

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Summary

Pachypsylla is a genus of psyllids known for their gall-forming behavior on Hackberry trees. Recent genetic studies suggest a complex of multiple species rather than an isolated one, leading to ongoing research in the field.

Physical Characteristics

2-6 mm in size; head and thorax pubescent, not shining; wings can be rhomboidal and vary in coloration (uniformly brown or finely mottled).

Identification Tips

Key identification traits include the shape of the wings (rhomboidal for larger species) and the type of galls formed on host plants.

Habitat

Primarily found on Celtis (Hackberry) trees throughout North America, mostly in eastern regions.

Distribution

Throughout North America, with a concentration in eastern areas.

Diet

Feed on the leaves of Celtis species, specifically Celtis occidentalis.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid on host leaves, and upon hatching, nymphs become encased in galls created by the plant's reaction to the infestation.

Reproduction

Species exhibit cryptic morphology in adults, with evidence suggesting multiple cryptic species, particularly in the P. celtidismamma complex.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a gall-forming pest on Hackberry trees, influencing plant health and possibly providing habitats for other organisms.

Evolution

Historically, many leaf-galling species have been treated as synonyms of a single species, with ongoing studies exploring genetic distinctions.

Misconceptions

Some species within the complex may have been historically misidentified as a single species due to indistinguishable adult morphology.

Tags

• Psyllids
• Gall makers
• Insecta
• Hackberry
• Pachypsylla
• Celtis