Oak Lace Bug

Oak lace bugs are native to North America but have been accidentally introduced to mainland Europe. They feed on the leaves of their host trees and are ‘true bugs’ meaning they have piercing mouthparts which are used to syphon sap from the underside of their host leaves. They are native to North America and were first reported as present in Europe in 2000 and they most likely arrived via accidental importation of contaminated plants and plant materials.   

Adults of the Oak lace bug are very small, up to 4mm long, making identification very difficult. Their small size does not however lessen their potential threat, as the feeding damage created by heavy infestations can weaken host trees reducing their ability to photosynthesize and enter them into premature leaf drop. Although Oak lace bugs prefer oaks they are also a threat to other broadleaf trees found in the UK such as Lime, Elm, Maple, Sweet chestnut and some species of the Rosaceae family (cherries, plum, apple etc).    

If Oak lace bug was to arrive in the UK it could add to the stress already faced by oak trees from threats such as Oak processionary moth and Acute oak decline. There are several species of lace bugs which are native to the UK and therefore microscopic identification of any adult lace bugs, and their nymphs, is always required. 

For more information about Oak lace bug, see the resources below.