The Hidden Secrets of Psylloidea: Biology, Behavior, Symbionts, and Ecology

Abstract

Psyllids constitute a diverse group of sap-feeding Sternorrhyncha that were relatively obscure until it was discovered that a handful of species transmit bacterial plant pathogens. Yet the superfamily Psylloidea is much richer than the sum of its crop-associated vectors, with over 4,000 described species exhibiting diverse life histories and host exploitation strategies. A growing body of research is uncovering fascinating insights into psyllid evolution, biology, behavior, and species interactions. This work has revealed commonalities and differences with better-studied Sternorrhyncha, as well as unique evolutionary patterns of lineage divergence and host use. We are also learning how psyllid evolution and foraging ecology underlie life history traits and the roles of psyllids in communities. At finer scales, we are untangling the web of symbionts across the psyllid family tree, linking symbiont and psyllid lineages, and revealing mechanisms underlying reciprocal exchange between symbiont and host. In this review, we synthesize and summarize key advances within these areas with a focus on free-living (nongalling) Psylloidea. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Entomology, Volume 69 is January 2024. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.

Psyllids in Natural Habitats as Alternative Resources for Key Natural Enemies of the Pear Psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea)

“…Psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) are small sap-feeding insects related to aphids, scale insects, and whiteflies (Figure 2). Global diversity of the Psylloidea exceeds 4000 known species, with an unknown number of species awaiting description [32,33]. Psyllids occur in all biogeographic regions except Antarctica [32].…”