- Narrow distribution. Southeast Asia, Oceania. On Eucalyptus deglupta and cassava, causing shoot-tip wilt and dieback, nut fall of coconut and pod distortion on cocoa. Also on papaya, mango and passionfruit. Several species. An important pest.
- Eggs laid on or near to the host; nymphs brown with long legs. Adults similar, up to 20 mm, and winged.
- Long needle-like mouth parts cause fruit spotting and distortions, fruit drop, stem cankers, and wilts.
- Natural enemies: encourage ants, e.g., Oecophylla.
- Cultural control: difficult as a few insects do much damage; early morning handpicking (cassava).
- Chemical control: PDPs - derris or pyrethrum; or synthetic pyrethroids and malathion.
