August 1996
Psocoptera: Psocidae
PLANTS ATTACKED: Maple and boxelder, primarily.
DESCRIPTION OF DAMAGE: Damaging stages - none. Location of the plant - bark.
IDENTIFICATION:
LIFE HISTORY: In mid-summer, usually starting in late June, very large clusters of brown, soft-bodied, winged insects about 1/4inch long may be seen moving in masses on the bark of trees. Characteristically, when disturbed, the whole mass appears to move at once. This insect is commonly known as the bark psocid (pronounced so'-sid). Maple and boxelder are the most common plants which bark psocids inhabit. They may be found on other plants as well. No damage is ever caused since the psocids merely congregate when they reach the adult stage to feed on lichens and bark. Prior to their appearance on the trees, they live among ground debris and plant liter. They are known to feed only on decaying organic matter. Therefore they are a curiosity and present no real problem other than a general nuisance.
CONTROL: If bark psocids are objectionable, they may be destroyed by an insecticide. Aerosol space sprays directed on the insect masses will control the infestation. Water sprays or dusts may be used effectively.