Broad-headed Sharpshooter

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oncometopia orbona: /ˌɒŋkoʊmɪˈtoʊpiə ɔrˈboʊnə/

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Summary

Oncometopia orbona, commonly known as the broad-headed sharpshooter, is a notable member of the sharpshooter family Cicadellidae, recognized for its broad head and significant presence in eastern U.S. habitats.

Physical Characteristics

11-12 mm in length.

Identification Tips

The broad-headed sharpshooter can be identified by its broad head and distinctive coloration, typically found in southeastern U.S.

Habitat

Prefers open areas with grasses and shrubs which provide suitable feeding grounds.

Distribution

Widespread in the eastern United States, from Pennsylvania to Georgia and as far west as Iowa and Texas.

Diet

Feeding primarily on plant sap, particularly from herbaceous plants and shrubs.

Life Cycle

Incomplete metamorphosis with stages including egg, nymph, and adult.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs in plant tissues, where nymphs will emerge once hatched and begin feeding.

Predators

Common natural predators include birds, spiders, and certain predaceous insects.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a herbivore influencing plant community dynamics and potentially serving as prey for higher trophic levels.

Economic Impact

May have impacts on agriculture if populations reach high densities, affecting crops due to sap feeding.

Collecting Methods

• Net sweeping
• Hand collection
• Light traps

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Pinning
• Drying

Similar Taxa

• Other members of the genus Oncometopia
• Sharpshooters in the family Cicadellidae

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for similar species due to its resemblance to other sharpshooters.

Tags

• sharpshooter
• Cicadellidae
• Oncometopia orbona
• insect
• eastern U.S.