Citrus flatid planthopper
The nymphs (larvae) of Metcalfa pruinosa look very similar to mealybugs. However, they are not related to them. They also seem to be able to move better than the insects belonging to the scale insects (Coccoidea).
The adult planthoppers are agile and fly; they grow to between five and eight millimetres in length.
I discovered the specimens shown here on the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Which is native to China and Taiwan. The citrus flatid planthopper, on the other hand, comes from North America.
Family
Flatidae
Distribution
North America and as an introduced species also in other regions (South America, East Asia).
Food
The adults and larvae suck on the plants on which they live.
Categories: Insects