Box Sucker vs Banded Blackfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Box Sucker Banded Blackfly
Scientific Name Psylla buxi Simulium ornatum
Order Hemiptera Diptera
Family Psyllidae Simuliidae
Size 2-3 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Gardens Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Box Sucker

A tiny jumping plant louse that causes cupping and distortion of box leaves. Nymphs produce waxy secretions. Can cause significant damage to ornamental box hedges.

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Did You Know?

Causes the characteristic cupped and distorted leaves seen on many box hedges in spring.

Banded Blackfly

A widespread European black fly species complex found in diverse stream types. Larvae filter-feed from silken pads attached to trailing vegetation and stones.

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Did You Know?

Recent DNA studies revealed that what was considered one species is actually a complex of several cryptic species.