Acutalis tartarea
(Say, 1830)
Acutalis tartarea is a North American in the Membracidae, Smiliinae. The species has been documented in macrophotography contexts, showing it perched on goldenrod (Solidago sp.). It is characterized by black coloration that presents particular challenges for flash photography techniques. The species is part of the diverse Membracidae family, which is known for its bizarre and varied pronotal modifications.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acutalis tartarea: /əˈkjuːtælɪs tɑrˈtɛəriə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The can be distinguished from other treehoppers by its black coloration and association with goldenrod (Solidago). It belongs to the tribe Acutalini within the Smiliinae. Specific diagnostic features separating it from other Acutalis species are not detailed in available sources.
Images
Appearance
Black-bodied . The dark coloration creates particular photographic challenges with full-flash macrophotography, often resulting in black backgrounds that provide poor contrast with the subject.
Habitat
Associated with goldenrod (Solidago sp.) vegetation. The has been photographed in natural areas with woody shrubs and herbaceous vegetation.
Distribution
North America. Distribution records include: Chiapas (Mexico), Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, and Florida (United States).
Host Associations
- Solidago - perched onPhotographed on goldenrod
Similar Taxa
- Spissistilus festinusBoth are black treehoppers in Membracidae, but S. festinus has distinctive zig-zag patterned red and white and is an agricultural pest of alfalfa and soybean, whereas A. tartarea lacks these eye patterns and has no documented pest status.
More Details
Photographic challenges
The black coloration of A. tartarea creates particular difficulties for full-flash macrophotography, as black backgrounds provide poor value contrast. Techniques to achieve blue sky backgrounds instead of black have been successfully demonstrated with this by using ISO 400, f/16 aperture, and reduced shutter speed (1/60 sec) combined with fill flash.
Lighting technique demonstration
This has been used to demonstrate dramatic differences in photographic lighting effects when flash are repositioned—comparing standard front-mounted twin flash versus one head detached and held directly above the subject.