Hackberry lace bug

Systematic position: the Hackberry lace bug (Corythucha celtidis) is a member of the order Hemiptera and the family Tingidae. These insects are easily distinguished by their unique, lace-like appearance of the wings and thorax, which serves as a highly efficient camouflage against the leaf surface.

Host plants and damage: the primary host for this species is the hackberry tree (Celtis). Both nymphs and adults feed by piercing leaf cells and sucking out the sap. While rarely lethal to mature trees, heavy infestations can cause aesthetic damage and contribute to the stress of the tree, making it vulnerable to other pathogens.

Biology and life cycle: adult bugs overwinter in protected areas, such as leaf litter or deep bark crevices. As the trees leaf out in spring, the adults emerge to feed and begin mating. Females deposit clusters of eggs on the underside of leaves. The life cycle involves several nymphal stages, and multiple generations are common during a single growing season.

Character of injury: feeding causes characteristic stippling or chlorotic spots on the upper leaf surface. As the insect population grows, these spots coalesce, often resulting in a bronzed or blanched appearance. Heavy feeding significantly reduces the photosynthetic capacity of the leaves, which can lead to premature leaf drop.

Protection measures: effective management relies on cultural practices, such as removing and destroying fallen leaves under the trees in late autumn to reduce overwintering populations. For landscape trees, if control is deemed necessary, contact or systemic insecticides can be applied during the early stages of infestation. Regular inspection of the undersides of leaves is crucial for timing applications.