Fulgoridae

Definition

A family of large, often vividly colored planthoppers (order Hemiptera, suborder Auchenorrhyncha) characterized by elongated heads, brilliant coloration that can resemble Lepidoptera, and tropical abundance. Members are commonly called lanternflies or lanthorn flies, though they do not produce light; the name derives from the enlarged, often lantern-like head processes found in some genera.

Etymology

From Latin fulgor 'brightness, lightning,' referring to the striking coloration of many species.

Example

The peanut-headed bug, Fulgora laternaria, is a classic fulgorid with an enlarged, hollow head process that was once mistakenly believed to emit light at night.

Synonyms

• lanternfly family

Related Terms

• Auchenorrhyncha
• Hemiptera
• planthopper
• Fulgoroidea
• lanternfly
• Pyrgosidae
• head process
• tropical insect diversity

Usage Notes

The common name 'lanternfly' is misleading and persists despite no bioluminescence; specialists use Fulgoridae strictly for the family, distinguishing it from related planthopper families in Fulgoroidea. The family has undergone significant taxonomic revision, with many former subfamilies now elevated to family rank, making older literature potentially confusing.