Summary
Wax model of Lucerne Flea Sminthurus viridis (sminthuridae) made by Judy Bishop, 1956. The model is magnified x50.
The lucerne flea is an important pest of pasture in Victoria. It attacks clovers, lucerne and other broad-leafed plants, eating small holes in the leaves. It dries out in summer, leaving eggs in the soil which are resistant to insecticides. The lucerne flea is not a true flea, but it has an abdominal appendage which enables it to jump considerable distances. Control can be achieved by spraying with "Imidan" insecticide when flea numbers are high, and following up with a second spray four weeks later.
Model based on specimen from Victorian Department of Agriculture.
Physical Description
Bright yellow and green insect with bulbous thorax with hairs, six short legs and antenae. Eyes are painted on.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation for Modelling from Victoria: Agriculture Department
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Maker
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Object Dimensions
170 mm (Length), 95 mm (Width), 95 mm (Height)
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Keywords
Fleas, Insects, Lucerne Fleas (Sminthuridae), Plant Pests & Diseases, Models & Modelmaking