Homotomidae
Guides
Homotoma
fig psylla
Homotoma is a genus of psyllids (jumping plant-lice) erected by Félix Guérin-Méneville in 1844. Members are primarily Palaearctic in distribution and represent the type genus of the subfamily Homotominae. Species in this genus are strongly associated with Ficus (fig) host plants, with several species documented as pests of cultivated figs. The genus includes economically significant species such as Homotoma ficus and Homotoma indica.
Homotoma ficus
Mediterranean fig psyllid, fig psylla
Homotoma ficus is a Mediterranean psyllid species in the family Homotomidae, commonly known as the Mediterranean fig psyllid or fig psylla. It has been introduced to regions outside its native range, including Serbia, through the cultivation of fig plants. The species can cause economic damage to its host plant in certain years. First described by Linnaeus in 1758 as Chermes ficus, it is now classified under the genus Homotoma.
Macrohomotoma gladiata
Curtain Fig Psyllid
Macrohomotoma gladiata is an invasive Asian psyllid that has established populations across the Mediterranean Basin and California, where it infests ornamental Ficus microcarpa. Nymphs feed on young tissues, producing dense white waxy secretions and honeydew that promotes sooty mould growth and causes twig dieback. The species has a likely bivoltine life cycle with possible partial third generation; young nymphs overwinter under stipules without development, resuming growth in spring. Natural enemies include a Psyllaephagus parasitoid that can achieve high parasitism rates, and the predatory bug Anthocoris nemoralis.