Waxy-secretions
Guides
Flatidae
Flatid Planthoppers
Flatidae are a family of planthoppers in the superfamily Fulgoroidea, distributed worldwide. Adults of some species display brightly colored forewings (tegmina), while others are camouflaged with waxy secretions. They feed on phloem sap and some species communicate using substrate-borne vibrations through plant stems. The family contains two subfamilies distinguished by body shape and wing posture: Flatinae with laterally flattened bodies and tent-like tegmina, and Flatoidinae with uncompressed bodies and more horizontal wing positioning.
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.
Metcalfa
Metcalfa is a genus of planthoppers in the family Flatidae, tribe Nephesini, native to North and Central America. The genus contains at least five described species, with Metcalfa pruinosa (citrus flatid planthopper) being the most economically significant due to its invasive spread to Europe and Asia. Adults are small, ranging 5.5–8 mm in length with a waxy, often bluish or grayish appearance. The genus is characterized by forewings with parallel cross-veins along the costal margin, distinguishing it from related families.
Monophlebidae
giant scales, monophlebids
Monophlebidae is a family of scale insects commonly known as giant scales or monophlebids. The family was first recognized as separate from Margarodidae by Maskell in 1880 based on morphological differences. Members are characterized by large body size among scale insects, with some species reaching 35 mm in length. The family is morphologically diverse but appears to be monophyletic. Many species are economically significant agricultural pests, particularly of woody plants including citrus.
Prociphilus tessellatus
Woolly Alder Aphid, Maple Blight Aphid
Prociphilus tessellatus, commonly known as the woolly alder aphid, is a species of aphid in the family Aphididae. It is notable for producing dense white, waxy filaments that cover its body, giving it a distinctive woolly or cloud-like appearance. The species has been observed forming colonies on alder (Alnus) species, including European alder (Alnus glutinosa). It serves as prey for various predators, including the Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis). The waxy secretions are believed to provide protection against predators and environmental conditions.