GROWTH AND FEEDING IN 2 SPECIES OF MACHAEROTIDAE (HOMOPTERA)

Serial sections were used to show that the nymphs of both Pectinariophyes stalii and Chaetophyes com- pacta feed on xylem sap. This is used to derive general nutrients and calcium ions which are used in the construction of their calcareous dwelling tube. The two species live in similar habitats but their life histories differ markedly. Females of both species lay eggs on new Eucalyptus shoots in early summer; P. stalii matures rapidly (6 weeks) and overwinters as an adult, but C. compacta develops more slowly (40 weeks) and overwinters as a juvenile. The different rates of growth and nutrient and calcium uptake are discussed in relation to observed differences in damage to the host tree. © Australian Journal of Zoology.