Centrotus cornutus
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Horned Treehopper, Thorn-hopper
Centrotus cornutus, commonly known as the Horned or Thorn-hopper, is a distinctive treehopper in the Membracidae. are recognized by their pronounced pronotal extensions that form horn-like projections, which function in camouflage by resembling thorns or plant parts. The species has a two-year and overwinters as larvae in leaf litter. It is one of only two treehopper species recorded in the United Kingdom.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Centrotus cornutus: //ˌsɛnˈtrəʊtəs kɔːˈnjuːtəs//
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Identification
The combination of the long, wave-shaped pronotal extension above the wings and the two sharp, ear-shaped lateral horn-like protrusions distinguishes this from all other European treehoppers. Most similar is Gargara genistae, the other UK species, which lacks horn-like protrusions, has a shorter pronotal extension, and is associated with broom (Cytisus scoparius) rather than woodland trees.
Images
Appearance
males measure 7–10 mm in length; females are slightly larger. The body is stocky and dark brown in coloration. The large, protruding are round and reddish-brown to red. The pronotum is hairy, arched upward, and extends backward in a long, wave-shaped projection above the wings, with two sharp, ear-shaped lateral protrusions that give the its name (cornutus = 'horned'). Legs are very short. Forewings are pale brown, translucent, with distinct brown venation visible.
Habitat
Inhabits woodlands, beech forests, and hedgerows. Found in moderately moist to dry areas. occur on trees including Populus, Quercus, and Rubus .
Distribution
Present across most of Europe, the eastern , and the Near East. One of only two recorded in the United Kingdom.
Seasonality
active from early May through early August. Mating occurs at the end of June and early July.
Diet
, feeding on plant sap using . Larvae feed primarily on Cirsium, Carduus, and Urtica . prefer Populus, Quercus, and Rubus species.
Host Associations
- Cirsium - larval food plantprimary larval
- Carduus - larval food plantprimary larval
- Urtica - larval food plantprimary larval
- Populus - food plantpreferred
- Quercus - food plantpreferred
- Rubus - food plantpreferred
- Cytisus scopariusdistinguishing feature of similar Gargara genistae
Life Cycle
Two-year . Overwinters in the larval stage within the litter layer. Females lay in the stalks of herbaceous plants after mating in late June to early July. Hatching larvae feed on plant tissues.
Behavior
When at rest on a branch with legs retracted, the pronotal extensions create effective camouflage resembling a part of the branch itself. Both sexes produce vibrational signals during courtship. Capable of jumping.
Ecological Role
Phytophagous insect that feeds on plant sap; specific ecological role in dynamics not well documented.
Human Relevance
No significant direct human relevance documented. Subject of entomological interest due to distinctive and limited UK distribution.
Similar Taxa
- Gargara genistaeThe only other UK ; distinguished by absence of horn-like pronotal protrusions, shorter pronotal extension, and association with broom (Cytisus scoparius) rather than woodland trees
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'cornutus' refers to the horn-like lateral protrusions of the pronotum.
Vibrational communication
Both males and females produce vibrational signals during courtship, a documented in this .