Sycamore lace bug

The Sycamore lace bug (Corythucha ciliata) is a member of the order Hemiptera and the family Tingidae. This insect is named for the intricate, lace-like pattern on its pronotum and wings, which provides excellent camouflage against the underside of host leaves, making them difficult to detect during the early stages of infestation.

The primary host for this pest is the Sycamore tree (Platanus species). It is a significant landscape pest, particularly in urban areas where Sycamore trees are widely planted as shade trees. Because of its rapid reproductive rate and lack of natural predators in non-native areas, it can quickly become a serious threat to the health of the trees.

Its biological cycle consists of eggs, nymphs, and adults. Adults overwinter in protected areas, such as bark fissures or debris under the tree. In the spring, they migrate to the newly emerged leaves to lay eggs. Depending on the local climate and temperature, this species can produce multiple generations per year, leading to overlapping populations that persist throughout the entire summer.

Damage is caused by both nymphs and adults feeding on the underside of the leaves. This feeding results in stippling, or small white spots, on the upper surface of the leaves. As the infestation progresses, these leaves yellow, brown, and often drop prematurely. This premature defoliation stresses the tree, reduces its photosynthetic capacity, and makes it more susceptible to environmental stress.

• Sanitation: Removing and destroying leaf litter where adults overwinter.
• Systemic Insecticides: Using soil drenches or trunk injections to control the population.
• Foliar Sprays: Applying contact insecticides when nymphs are actively feeding in late spring.
• Monitoring: Conducting regular inspections of leaf undersides starting in late May or June.