Lace Bug

Scientific Name: Stephanitis sp. (e.g., Stephanitis pyrioides)

Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Tingidae

Size: 2mm to 8mm in length

Lace Bug

Natural Habitat

Found on the undersides of leaves of various plants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, oaks, and sycamores.

Diet & Feeding

Plant sap (piercing-sucking mouthparts used on the undersides of leaves).

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs and adults typically live on the underside of leaves, leaving behind dark, varnish-like waste spots (frass). They exhibit hemimetabolous metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

They are agricultural and ornamental pests that cause stippling and chlorosis (yellowing) of leaves; they pose no physical risk to humans but can significantly damage landscape plants.

Identified on: 2/20/2026