Tortistilus collinus
(Van Duzee, 1908)
Tortistilus collinus is a described by Van Duzee in 1908, belonging to the tribe Ceresini within the Smiliinae. The Tortistilus is part of the diverse Membracidae, known for their highly modified pronota that often resemble plant parts or other structures. This species is recorded from California, USA, where it occurs among other members of its genus.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tortistilus collinus: /ˌtɔr.tɪˈstɪ.ləs kəˈliː.nəs/
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Identification
The Tortistilus can be distinguished from other Ceresini by characteristics of the pronotum and overall body form, though specific diagnostic features for T. collinus require examination of type material or detailed taxonomic keys. Within the tribe Ceresini, Tortistilus are distinguished from the more commonly encountered Ceresa by subtle differences in pronotal shape and . Identification to species level in this genus generally requires reference to original descriptions and comparison with .
Distribution
Recorded from California, USA. The Tortistilus has a western Nearctic distribution.
Similar Taxa
- Ceresa spp.Convergent pronotal modifications and shared tribe Ceresini; distinguished by differences in pronotal , body proportions, and detailed structural features of the and .
- Tortistilus sp. [other species]Congeneric share -level characteristics; T. collinus specifically distinguished by features described in Van Duzee (1908) original description.
More Details
Taxonomic Context
Tortistilus collinus was originally described by Van Duzee in 1908. The Tortistilus is classified in tribe Ceresini, Smiliinae. The tribe Ceresini includes other genera such as Ceresa, Poppea, and Vanduzeea, many of which exhibit pronounced pronotal modifications. The Smiliinae represents one of the most diverse lineages of treehoppers in the Nearctic region.