Bug Identifier
Lantana lace bug
Community identification

Lantana lace bug

Teleonemia scrupulosa

Order & Family
Hemiptera, Tingidae
Size
3 to 4 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical America, but introduced worldwide; typically found on the undersides of Lantana camara leaves.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; feeds exclusively on the sap of plants in the morning glory and lantana family (Verbenaceae).

Behavior Patterns

They exhibit hemimetabolous development. Adults and nymphs gregariously feed on leaves, causing chlorosis and eventual leaf drop. They can produce several generations per year in warm climates.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial as a biological control agent for invasive Lantana camara shrubs, though it may occasionally feed on other related ornamental plants. It poses no risk to humans.