DESCRIPTION: A leaf curl gall caused by a quite distinctive homopteran that has elongate pointed black and white patterned wings. The overwintering eggs hatch as the buds open with the nymphs immediately starting to feed on the edge of the leaves. The curled pouches reach up to 1mm in length with each one containing several nymphs. Adults emerge in July and August and feed on sap from leaves and twigs. These adults lay eggs on the twigs and the cycle starts all over again the following year. DISTRIBUTION: Locally common in southern England with occasional records as far north as Cumbria. HABITAT: Found on the leaves of Purging Buckthorn.
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