Lace Bugs

(Length: 3/16″ long or less) The typical adult lace bug is small and rectangular with an overall flattened appearance. In most species, the adults are cream colored with patches of brown or black. Both adults and nymphs injure the host plant by piercing the leaves and sucking the plant juices causing foliage discoloration, reduced plant vigor and premature leaf drop. Damage caused by lace bugs is often mistaken for mite damage. The underside of the leaves will often reveal the nymphs and adults. The black spots found on the leaf underside are the excrement of the lace bug and are an obvious symptom of this insect.