Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid
ExploreInsects
Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid
Pachypsylla celtidismamma
The Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid is a tiny insect that makes little bumps on hackberry leaves. These bumps are called galls, and they are like cozy homes for the psyllid babies!
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid is a tiny insect, typically 2-4mm long, with a greenish-yellow or brownish body. It has clear, membranous wings slightly longer than its body. Its small size and general appearance resemble a mini cicada, often found near the distinctive nipple-shaped galls on hackberry leaves.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHemipteraFamilyAphalaridaeGenusPachypsylla
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Baby psyllids hatch *inside* the galls, where they are safe from hungry predators.
The galls they create on leaves are actually made of the tree's own cells, tricked into growing!
These tiny insects are like master architects, creating intricate homes from tree leaves!
They are relatives of aphids and cicadas, all part of the 'true bugs' insect family!
Special abilities
Ability
Gall Architect
Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid can trick hackberry trees into growing protective 'nipple galls' that shelter its developing young.
Ability
Sap Sipper
Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid has specialized mouthparts that help them pierce plant tissue and drink nutrient-rich tree sap.
Ability
Tree Mapper
Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid can locate specific hackberry trees to feed and lay eggs, ensuring its survival.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 4-6 mm
- Size
- 2-4 mm
- Lifespan
- 30-45 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
These tiny insects drink the sap from hackberry trees, causing unique bumps on the leaves.
Age differences: Nymphs also feed on hackberry sap from inside their protective galls.
Primary Foods
- Hackberry tree sap
- Phloem sap
- Plant juices
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
depends on
Common Hackberry
Celtis occidentalis
Its sole host plant for feeding and gall formation.
eaten by
Carolina Chickadee
Poecile carolinensis
A common bird that preys on small insects from trees.
eaten by
Seven-spotted Lady Beetle
Coccinella septempunctata
Adults and larvae consume various small soft-bodied insects.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Miniature
Pertaining to species that are significantly smaller than typical or average for their kind.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's safe to look at these insects, but don't touch them or the galls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid's wingspan?
4-6 mm
How big is Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid?
2-4 mm
How long does Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid live?
30-45 days
What does Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid eat?
These tiny insects drink the sap from hackberry trees, causing unique bumps on the leaves.
Where is Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid usually found?
Urban areas
How does Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Hackberry Nipplegall Psyllid have?
6
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