Auchenorrhyncha

Definition

A suborder of Hemiptera (true bugs) comprising cicadas, leafhoppers, treehoppers, planthoppers, and spittlebugs. Historically grouped within the obsolete suborder Homoptera, Auchenorrhyncha is now recognized as a distinct lineage based on molecular phylogenetics. Members are characterized by their anteriorly placed mouthparts and, in many groups, sound-producing tymbal organs. The suborder encompasses two major infraorders: Cicadomorpha (cicadas, leafhoppers, treehoppers) and Fulgoromorpha (planthoppers).

Etymology

From Greek aukhēn (neck, throat) + rhunkhos (snout, beak), referring to the anterior position of the mouthparts on the head.

Example

The froghopper Cercopis vulnerata, a member of Auchenorrhyncha, can accelerate to over 4000 m/s² during its jump—one of the highest accelerations known in the animal kingdom.

Related Terms

• Cicadomorpha
• Fulgoromorpha
• Sternorrhyncha
• Heteroptera
• Coleorrhyncha
• Homoptera
• tymbal
• Hemiptera

Usage Notes

The elevation of Auchenorrhyncha to suborder rank reflects the abandonment of Homoptera as a formal taxon; Homoptera is now used only informally or historically. Contrast with Sternorrhyncha (aphids, scale insects, adelgids, psyllids), which have posteriorly positioned mouthparts. Some classifications further divide Auchenorrhyncha into Clypeata (equivalent to Auchenorrhyncha) and Archaeorrhyncha (planthopper relict lineages), though this scheme is not universally adopted.