Centrotinae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Centrotinae: /sɛnˈtrɒtɪniː/

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

Images

British Entomology Volume 7 (John Curtis) Plate 313 by John Curtis
. Used under a Public domain license.

Microcentrus caryae P1310912a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Microcentrus caryae P1310913b by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Microcentrus caryae (49574217893) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Microcentrus caryae P1310911a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

2016 09 06 Zikade1 by Slimguy. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Centrotinae is a diverse subfamily of treehoppers encompassing 1350 species across 216 genera. They are known for their relationships with ants and their distinctive morphological traits. Native species are limited to the southwestern United States in the specified area while the total diversity is much higher in the Old World.

Physical Characteristics

Typically have the posterior pronotal process not concealing the scutellum. The forewing has the clavus truncated at the apex and a broad apical limbus.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic shape of the pronotum and wing structure, as well as relationships with ants tending them for honeydew.

Habitat

Primarily found in a range of habitats where their host plants are present, particularly in regions with diverse plant families.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution with a concentration in the Old World; in the specified area, native species are found only in the southwestern United States.

Diet

Feed on a wide range of host plants belonging to 105 plant families, notably Leguminosae, Compositae, Solanaceae, and Euphorbiaceae.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are not provided; however, generally, they undergo typical hemipteran development which includes an egg, nymph, and adult stage.

Reproduction

Reproductive specifics are not detailed in the provided content.

Predators

Predation details are not provided; however, potential predators may include birds and other insectivorous species.

Ecosystem Role

Serve as herbivores that interact with a variety of plant families and have mutualistic relationships with ants.

Evolution

Centrotinae is the largest subfamily within the Membracidae family, reflecting a wide evolutionary history and diversity. Old World species show higher diversity compared to New World species.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Centrotinae with other subfamilies of treehoppers due to similar physical characteristics.