INSECTS of...Hardwood Branch and Stem

Common Name:	PSOCIDS OR BARK LICE Protective silk webbing spun by PSOCIDS over the bark of an oak tree. .
Species	Several
Common Hosts:	Rough-barked hardwoods Palms
Description	Adult -- approximately 6 mm long; brownish-black body with white edges and stripes on wings; wings held roof-like over body. Nymph -- similar to adult; wingless.
Importance	Large populations may produce a great amount of silk webbing on a tree, but no damage is done. Insects feed on fungi, spores, pollen, lichen, and other debris on a tree's bark.
Signs of Infestation	Small portions or entire tree trunk covered with a fine silk webbing. Dark area on trunk or branch comprised of several hundred psocids or bark lice.
Control	Use a garden hose and water to wash insects and silk webbing off infested trees. May need to repeat through the year.

Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the Forest Health Section

PSOCIDS OR BARK LICE