Typical Leafhoppers

Cicadellidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cicadellidae: /sɪkəˈdɛlɪdiː/

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

Images

Scaphytopius argutus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Scaphytopius argutus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Nasutoideus andromus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Scaphytopius brunneus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Scaphytopius verecundus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Scaphytopius abbreviatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Cicadellidae, commonly known as leafhoppers, are minute insects that feed on plant sap. With around 3,000 described species in North America and 22,000 globally, they are an important family within the Hemiptera order. Known for their jumping abilities and role as plant pathogens' vectors, they occupy a wide range of habitats and exhibit diverse ecological connections.

Physical Characteristics

The Cicadellidae have short thickened antennae ending with an arista, two ocelli on the head, tarsi with three segments, and front wings that are not particularly thickened. The hind tibiae have distinctive keels and a row of movable spines. The adults and nymphs of some species are colorful, with some species having translucent wings resembling flies.

Identification Tips

To identify leafhoppers, look for their characteristic jumping hind legs and piercing-sucking mouthparts. The presence of brochosomes on the body and their size ranging from 2-30 mm can also aid in identification.

Habitat

Leafhoppers inhabit nearly every habitat with vascular plants, including deserts, grasslands, wetlands, and forests.

Distribution

Cicadellidae species are distributed worldwide, with approximately 3,000 described species in North America and about 22,000 species globally.

Diet

Leafhoppers are primarily herbivores, feeding on the sap of a wide range of plants. Some species may occasionally consume smaller insects such as aphids.

Life Cycle

The life cycle consists of nymphs that undergo five molts to reach adulthood. They display a partial metamorphosis, with nymphs directly developing into adults without a pupal stage.

Reproduction

Female leafhoppers insert several eggs into the living tissue of a host plant. Eggs can either remain dormant or develop and hatch within a few weeks, depending on the species.

Predators

Leafhoppers are preyed upon by small insectivores and various parasitoids that target their eggs and adults.

Ecosystem Role

Leafhoppers play a crucial role as micropredators and vectors of plant pathogens, such as viruses and phytoplasmas.

Economic Impact

Some species, notably agricultural pests like the beet leafhopper and potato leafhopper, are significant vectors of plant diseases, impacting crop health and yield.

Health Concerns

While leafhoppers may occasionally pierce human skin and draw blood, the function of this behavior remains unclear. They can also carry plant pathogens that can affect agricultural systems.

Collecting Methods

  • Net sweeping
  • Beating vegetation
  • Sticky traps
  • Vacuum sampling

Preservation Methods

  • Pinned specimens
  • Ethanol preservation
  • Freeze preservation

Evolution

Cicadellidae belong to a lineage traditionally placed in the infraorder Cicadomorpha. Recent research retains them within the suborder Auchenorrhyncha.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Leafhoppers are often mistaken for other small insects such as flies due to their jumping ability and color patterns, but they are distinct in their anatomy and habits.

Tags

  • Cicadellidae
  • Leafhoppers
  • Hemiptera
  • Plant feeders
  • Insect ecology