Ophiderma

Ophiderma

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ophiderma: /ˌɒfɪˈdɜːrmə/

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

Images

Ophiderma flaviguttula by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Ophiderma stonei by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Ophiderma fraterna by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Ophiderma panda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Ophiderma flava by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Ophiderma fraterna by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Ophiderma is a genus of treehoppers within the family Membracidae, notable for their diversity with about 17 described species. These insects are primarily found in eastern North America, showcasing significant sexual dimorphism and variable coloration. Identification can be challenging due to the close similarities between species, particularly in terms of size and color patterns.

Physical Characteristics

Forewings often exhibit dark maculation with sexual dimorphism present; color patterns vary significantly among species and can change with age and seasonality. Pronotum is enlarged and covers the abdomen, with some species showing a crest or keel. Females of some species have more distinctive markings compared to males.

Identification Tips

Identifying members of this genus is quite challenging, particularly in the eastern United States, where similar species overlap. Sexual dimorphism is prominent, necessitating sometimes the observation of both males and females for accurate identification. Length measurement may help differentiate similar species.

Habitat

Primarily found in areas with suitable host plants like Castanea, Fagus, Quercus, and Ulmus. They inhabit forests and areas with dense vegetation.

Distribution

Ophiderma species are predominantly distributed in eastern North America, with some species reaching Canada and others being restricted to specific states like Arizona and Florida.

Diet

Ophiderma treehoppers feed on the sap of various plants, particularly those belonging to the host plant families.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details specific to Ophiderma are not extensively documented; however, like other hemipterans, they undergo incomplete metamorphosis, transitioning through nymphal stages before becoming adults.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves mating, with females laying eggs on suitable host plants. Oviposition strategies vary among species, but details on specific behaviors are not provided.

Ecosystem Role

As sap-sucking insects, they play a role in the ecosystem by interacting with their host plants; they can also be prey for various predators, including birds and other insects.

Economic Impact

While specific economic impacts of Ophiderma species are not detailed, treehoppers can affect plant health due to their feeding habits, potentially leading to reduced growth or vigor in affected plants.

Collecting Methods

  • Net sweeping
  • Hand collection from host plants

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying and pinning
  • Frozen storage for genetic studies

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some species may be misidentified due to their similar appearances and the influence of regional variation in color patterns.

Tags

  • treehoppers
  • hemiptera
  • insects
  • Ophiderma
  • cicadomorpha