white fibrous lerp

Description:

A white mound of woven waxy material secreted by the nymph of a Psyllid insect. Small black ants called Large Dolly ants (Dolichoderus sp.)were attending to the lerp. Also seen, partly incorporated into the waxy threads of the lerp, was a scattering of moist dark green substance.

Habitat:

Red Gum

Notes:

The Psyllid nymph shelters under the white lerp, which is a mixture of amino acids and sugary substance, and feeds on the leaf sap. The ants feed on the sugary secretions and protect the lerp from predators. I am curious about the green gooey material on the lerp. I don' think it's ant frass ??. I could not find this green material on any other part of the leaf. I would appreciate any information on this.. Info on the ant http://www.brisbaneinsects.com/brisbane_...