Hadrophallus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hadrophallus: /hædroʊˈfæləs/

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Summary

Hadrophallus is a genus of treehoppers within the family Membracidae. The buffalo treehopper, Stictocephala bisonia, is one of its species and is known for its distinctive appearance and impact on agricultural plants.

Physical Characteristics

Buffalo treehoppers are a bright green color and have a somewhat triangular shape that helps camouflage them, resembling thorns or a twiggy protuberance. They grow to 6 to 8 millimeters (0.24 to 0.31 in) long and have transparent wings.

Identification Tips

Look for their triangular body shape and bright green coloration, which helps them blend in with plant materials.

Habitat

Buffalo treehoppers prefer environments with grasses, weeds, and other nonwoody plants. They are often found on host plants such as black locust, clover, elm, goldenrod, and willow.

Distribution

Originally native to North America, now widespread throughout southern Europe, Near East, and North Africa.

Diet

Both adult and immature buffalo treehoppers feed on sap from various plants, particularly favoring black locust, clover, elm, goldenrod, and willow. They can be pests of fruit trees, especially apple trees.

Life Cycle

Mating occurs during the summer months, with females laying eggs from July to October. The nymphs emerge in the following May or June and feed on various plants before molting several times until adulthood.

Reproduction

Males attract females using plant vibrations instead of sound. Females use a blade-like ovipositor to lay eggs in slits made in plant tissue.

Economic Impact

Has become an invasive species in some parts of Europe and may cause damage to fruit trees, particularly young orchard trees.

Tags

• Hadrophallus
• Cicadomorpha
• Treehopper