Asian citrus psyllid is a major pest of citrus, primarily because it transmits Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus bacteria, the causative agent for citrus greening (also known as huanglongbing or HLB). Feeding by Asian citrus psyllid causes leaf distortion (curling and notching). Copious amounts of honeydew are associated with heavy infestations.

Asian citrus psyllid adults are relatively small (3-4 mm), have mottled brown wings, and sit at an angle to the shoot or leaf on which they feed. Adults are quite active. The immature stage (nymph) is green or dull orange. The bright yellow eggs are found on "feather flush" and hatch in 2-4 days. Females may lay as many as 800 eggs. The five nymphal instars are completed within 11-15 days and the total life cycle can take 15-47 days, depending on temperature. Adults may live several months.

Management of citrus psyllid within citrus plantings is accomplished primarily with pesticides. Biological controls have been used in non-crop reservoirs.

In the United States, the Asian citrus psyllid has been found in Florida, Texas, and Hawaii, but citrus greening, perhaps the most serious citrus disease worldwide, only occurs in Florida. The disease causes yellow shoots, mottled and misshapen leaves, twig dieback, and reduced fruit size and quality. The disease is called "citrus greening" because affected fruit fail to ripen. The Florida Department of Agriculture has imposed restrictions on movement of certain host materials within the state. Host materials can be moved from quarantined areas only if they have been treated in compliance with Florida and USDA requirements.

Additional information on Asian citrus psyllid can be found at:

Florida Department of Agriculture

Florida Entomologist

University of Florida