Lerp (biology)
Structure of crystallized honeydew
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In biology, a lerp is a structure of crystallized honeydew produced by larvae of psyllid bugs as a protective cover. These animals are commonly referred to as lerp insects, of which there are over 300 species in Australia.[1]
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Lerps are energy rich, consisting mostly of starch, with some proteins and fats.[1] They are eaten by flying foxes, possums and birds such as pardalotes and honeyeaters.[1]
The word is derived from the Wemba Wemba word lerep.[2] Lerps are traditionally eaten by Indigenous people, and can be stored as dry balls for future use.[3]
