Cixiidae

Definition

A large family of planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) comprising more than 2,000 species in over 150 genera, distributed worldwide. Adults are typically small, slender insects with reduced wing venation; many species are vectors of plant pathogens, including phytoplasmas that cause diseases in palms and other economically important crops. Nymphs of several lineages live hypogeally, feeding on roots and associated with fungal symbionts.

Etymology

From the type genus Cixius (from Greek kixos, a kind of thistle) + the family suffix -idae.

Example

The cixiid Myndus crudus is the principal vector of lethal yellowing, a phytoplasma disease that has devastated coconut palms throughout the Caribbean.

Related Terms

• Fulgoroidea
• Hemiptera
• planthopper
• Delphacidae
• phytoplasma
• Vector

Usage Notes

Sometimes called 'cixiid planthoppers' to distinguish them from other fulgoroid families. The family is morphologically diverse; subfamilies include Cixiinae, Borystheninae, and Bothriocerinae. Identification to genus or species often requires examination of male genitalia and wing venation patterns. Not to be confused with the related family Delphacidae, which typically possess a movable spur on the hind tibia.