Aetalionid Treehoppers

Aetalionidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Infraorder: Cicadomorpha
Superfamily: Membracoidea
Family: Aetalionidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aetalionidae: /aɪtəˈlaɪəniˌdiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Aetalionidae are a family of treehoppers known for their distinctive morphology, social behavior, and maternal care, primarily found in Neotropical regions.

Physical Characteristics

Aetalionidae have one to three rows of short spines on the hind tibia. The front femur is fused to the trochanter and the scutellum is completely exposed. Females possess finger-like protrusions on the genital capsule.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive spines on hind tibia and the fused front femur when identifying Aetalionid treehoppers.

Habitat

They can be found on the branches of trees, particularly in Neotropical areas, as well as in parts of S. Asia.

Distribution

Primarily Neotropical with populations in Florida and Arizona in the US, and one species in S. Asia.

Diet

They feed on plant sap, producing honeydew as a byproduct.

Life Cycle

Aetalionid treehoppers exhibit maternal care, with females guarding their eggs.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs on or near plants, which they guard from predators.

Predators

Predation by birds and various insect predators.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in the ecosystem by producing honeydew, which is an important food source for ants and other insects.

Economic Impact

The species Darthula hardwickii is eaten in parts of China and India, indicating a local economic significance.

Collecting Methods

Net collecting from tree branches
Visual observation for aggregation
Pitfall traps in suitable habitats

Preservation Methods

Standard insect preservation techniques
Ethanol preservation for genetic studies

Evolution

Aetalionidae shares similarities with the family Membracidae but has distinct morphological differences which suggest an adaptive evolution within treehoppers.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Aetalionidae with other treehopper families despite the distinct morphological features they possess.