Florida Forest Diseases
Sycamore lacebugs
Sycamore lacebug (Corythucha ciliata) is a tiny lacebug that feeds only on the undersides of sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) leaves. Damage to levaes appears as stippling in early summer and progresses to bronzing or chlorosis. Severe infestations cause defoliation and sometimes decline of trees. The insect is common throughout Florida. No control is commonly practiced. |
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Identifying Characteristics |
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Identifying the injury: |
Foliage with whitish stippling, following by bronzing and chlorosis; defoliation. |
Identifying the insect: |
Adults are about 3 mm long, whitish in color with clear, “lacey” elytra (wings). Nymphs are often found with adults, smaller in size and with light and dark coloration – sometimes black. |
Susceptible trees: |
Sycamores (planes) in the genus Platanus (most common on P. occidentalis in the eastern U.S.) |
Photos |
Stippling on sycamore leaves Affected sycamore trees
Photo credit:Bugwood.org Photo credit:Bugwood.org
Adults on sycamore leaf Nymphs on sycamore leaf
Photo credit:Bugwood.org Photo credit:Bugwood.org