Bug Identifier
Lace Bug
Community identification

Lace Bug

Stephanitis pyrioides

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Tingidae
Size
2 to 4 mm (0.08 to 0.16 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the undersides of leaves of host plants, such as azaleas, rhododendrons, and oaks, in gardens and landscapes.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap from the underside of leaves.

Behavior Patterns

They are known for their intricate, lace-like wing patterns. They typically have multiple generations per year and overwinter as eggs inserted into leaf veins. Feeding causes 'stippling'—yellow or white spots on the upper leaf surface.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered garden pests as heavy infestations can cause significant aesthetic damage to ornamental plants and reduce plant vigor. They are generally harmless to humans and do not bite.