callumbrae
2psyllids_141228_J1A8581smsh
Two Psyllid species.
The one below is a fully grown adult. Their nymphs weave lerps to cover themselves, but the small birds find the lerps very nutritious, and feed on them, forcing the nymphs, if they are left behind, to keep spinning new covers.
The Psyllid above is an immature specimen of a larger species. These provide food for ants which feed on their excrement.
Both Psyllids were found on a Eucalyptus tree.
Urban Canberra, Australia, December, 2014.
2psyllids_141228_J1A8581smsh
Two Psyllid species.
The one below is a fully grown adult. Their nymphs weave lerps to cover themselves, but the small birds find the lerps very nutritious, and feed on them, forcing the nymphs, if they are left behind, to keep spinning new covers.
The Psyllid above is an immature specimen of a larger species. These provide food for ants which feed on their excrement.
Both Psyllids were found on a Eucalyptus tree.
Urban Canberra, Australia, December, 2014.