Membracoidea

Definition

A superfamily of insects belonging to the order Hemiptera, comprising approximately 25,000 described species in five or more families. They are characterized by their distinctive pronotal modifications and include treehoppers and leafhoppers.

Etymology

From Greek 'membran', meaning 'membrane', and 'oidea', meaning 'form'.

Example

Membracoidea are diverse in habitat and morphology, with some species exhibiting elaborate pronotal structures.

Related Terms

• Treehoppers
• Leafhoppers
• Hemiptera

Usage Notes

The classification of Membracoidea is complex and subject to ongoing revision.