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Loensia variegata

Loensia variegata is a large bark louse, reaching 3 to 4 mm. Often is has some greenish or yellowish veins in the wings. This species eats algae mainly. It is very fond of Apatococcus lobatus. This is the infamous green 'powder', which grows not only on bark, but on walls, fences and even garden furniture as well. This of course attracts Loensia variegata. And because it is a fairly big species, it gets noted from time to time. It is also found on a wide range of trees, including plumb, apple and pear, possibly due to the presence of named algae. Common throughout Britain and Ireland, but rare in Scotland.