Bug Identifier
Lace Bug
Community identification

Lace Bug

Family Tingidae

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Tingidae
Size
2 to 8 mm (0.08 to 0.3 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Leaves of trees and shrubs, particularly on the undersides of deciduous leaves.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the sap of host plants, causing stippling or yellowing of leaves.

Behavior Patterns

They are often seen in groups on the undersides of leaves. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and are known for the intricate, lace-like patterns on their wings and thorax.

Risks & Benefits

They are plant pests that can cause aesthetic damage to ornamental plants and trees. They do not bite humans or pose a direct health risk, but heavy infestations can weaken host plants.