Pachypsylla cohabitans
Yang & Riemann, 2001
Pachypsylla cohabitans is a of hackberry described in 2001. Like other members of the Pachypsylla, it induces galls on hackberry trees (Celtis species). The species name 'cohabitans' suggests an association with shared or communal gall structures, distinguishing it from other Pachypsylla species that typically form individual galls. It belongs to the Aphalaridae, a group of sap-feeding insects commonly known as jumping plant lice.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachypsylla cohabitans: /ˌpæk.iˈsɪl.ə koʊˈhæb.ɪˌtænz/
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Identification
Pachypsylla cohabitans is distinguished from by its gall . Unlike P. celtidismama, which produces discrete nipple galls housing single nymphs, P. cohabitans forms galls that accommodate multiple individuals—hence the epithet. The psyllids are small (3.5–4.5 mm), resembling tiny cicadas with membranous wings held roof-like over the body. Specific adult morphological characters separating P. cohabitans from other Pachypsylla species require microscopic examination and are not documented in readily accessible sources.
Habitat
Associated with hackberry trees (Celtis ), occurring wherever hackberry grows naturally or as an ornamental. The species exploits the leaf tissue of hackberry to form its characteristic galls.
Distribution
Recorded from Arkansas (ARKOO), Indiana (INIOO), Louisiana (LOUOO), Maryland (MRYOO), and Arizona (ARIOO) based on GBIF distribution records. The range corresponds to the distribution of hackberry trees in North America.
Seasonality
emerge in fall and seek sheltered locations to overwinter. In spring, females deposit on unfolding hackberry leaves at bud break. Timing of oviposition is critical—eggs laid too early or too late fail to develop successfully.
Diet
Nymphs feed on hackberry leaf tissue within galls, tapping plant sap with . feed on hackberry sap using beak-like mouthparts.
Host Associations
- Celtis - gall former plant for gall induction and feeding
Life Cycle
Females deposit on hackberry leaves as they unfold from buds. Hatched nymphs induce gall formation through feeding activity. The tree responds by producing tumor-like growths that house and nourish the developing nymph. Nymphs pass through five instars before emerging as . The final instar possesses wing pads and spike-like projections used to cut an exit from the gall. Adults overwinter in concealed locations and reappear the following spring.
Behavior
seek crevices and sheltered locations for , sometimes aggregating in large numbers on building exteriors, window screens, and door frames. This can create nuisance situations for homeowners. Adults are capable of jumping to escape threats.
Ecological Role
As gall formers, P. cohabitans stimulates plant tissue growth that creates microhabitats. The galls may provide shelter for other organisms, though this is less established than for single-occupancy galls. Nymphs serve as for parasitic including Psyllaephagus (Encyrtidae) and Torymus species (Torymidae), which may help regulate .
Human Relevance
can become household nuisances in fall when seeking sites. They pose no direct threat to humans, pets, or property. No treatment is necessary; hosing down exterior surfaces with water removes aggregating adults. The galls do not appear to harm hackberry tree health significantly.
Similar Taxa
- Pachypsylla celtidismamaProduces discrete nipple galls on hackberry leaves, each housing a single nymph, whereas P. cohabitans forms galls accommodating multiple individuals
- Other Pachypsylla speciesSix additional hackberry exist, distinguishable primarily by gall , size, location on leaf, and surface texture (smooth to hairy)