Hackberry nipple galls are caused by which insect group commonly called jumping plant lice?

Hackberry nipple galls are caused by which insect group commonly called jumping plant lice?

• A. Psylids
• B. Aphids
• C. Scale insects
• D. Beetles

Answer: (A)

Galls form when sap-sucking insects feed on a plant and alter the growth pattern of the tissue. Hackberry nipple galls are a classic sign of feeding by psyllids, the insects commonly known as jumping plant lice. These tiny insects spend the nymph stage feeding on the leaf surface, and their feeding triggers the plant to grow nipple-like protrusions. The adults are small and can jump or fly short distances, which is where the common name comes from. While aphids can cause various distortions, the distinct nipple-shaped galls on hackberry specifically point to psyllids. Scale insects and beetles produce different symptoms and aren’t associated with forming these nipple galls.

Galls form when sap-sucking insects feed on a plant and alter the growth pattern of the tissue. Hackberry nipple galls are a classic sign of feeding by psyllids, the insects commonly known as jumping plant lice. These tiny insects spend the nymph stage feeding on the leaf surface, and their feeding triggers the plant to grow nipple-like protrusions. The adults are small and can jump or fly short distances, which is where the common name comes from. While aphids can cause various distortions, the distinct nipple-shaped galls on hackberry specifically point to psyllids. Scale insects and beetles produce different symptoms and aren’t associated with forming these nipple galls.