Empoa rubricola

Christian, 1954

Empoa rubricola is a of leafhopper in the Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae. Described by Christian in 1954, this species belongs to a of small, often brightly colored leafhoppers. Like other Empoa species, it likely possesses brochosomes—nanoparticles that provide water-repellent and anti-reflective properties to the . The species has been recorded from northeastern North America including Delaware, New Hampshire, Ontario, Québec, and Wisconsin.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Empoa rubricola: /ˈɛm.poʊ.ə ˈruː.brɪˌkoʊ.lə/

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

Identification

Empoa rubricola can be distinguished from similar Empoa by genitalic characters and subtle coloration patterns, though specific diagnostic features require examination of type material. Members of Empoa are small leafhoppers, typically with slender bodies and often with reddish or orange markings. The is part of the Typhlocybinae, characterized by reduced wing venation and often delicate, transparent wings.

Distribution

Recorded from Delaware, New Hampshire, Ontario, Québec, and Wisconsin based on distribution records. The appears to be restricted to northeastern North America.

Similar Taxa

  • Empoa fabaeSimilar size and coloration; E. fabae (potato leafhopper) is bright lime-green and causes significant agricultural damage, whereas E. rubricola lacks documented pest status
  • Empoasca spp.Formerly congeneric; Empoasca were split from Empoa based on genitalic and other morphological characters, requiring careful examination for proper identification

Tags

Sources and further reading