Ophiderma
Fairmaire, 1847
Species Guides
13Ophiderma is a of treehoppers in the Membracidae, established by Fairmaire in 1847. The genus comprises approximately 17 described . As members of the Smiliinae and tribe Smiliini, these insects are characterized by the enlarged pronotum typical of treehoppers. The genus has been documented in North America, with records from the United States and Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ophiderma: /ˌɒfɪˈdɜːrmə/
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Identification
Identification to relies on features of the pronotum, wing venation, and genitalia typical of the tribe Smiliini. -level identification requires examination of pronotal shape, coloration patterns, and male genital structures. Ophiderma species may be distinguished from related genera in Smiliini (such as Cyrtolobus, Telamona, and Palonica) by specific configurations of the pronotal projection and associated processes. Expert determination is typically necessary for accurate species identification.
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Habitat
associations for Ophiderma are not specifically documented. As members of Smiliini, likely occur on woody plants, consistent with the tribe's general . Specific host plant relationships have not been established in the provided sources.
Distribution
Documented from North America, with records from the United States (including Vermont) and Mexico. The precise geographic range of the extends across these regions, though specific distribution patterns for individual require further documentation.
Similar Taxa
- CyrtolobusBoth are in tribe Smiliini with enlarged pronota; distinguished by specific pronotal shape and process configuration.
- TelamonaShares tribal affiliation (Smiliini) and general body plan; separated by pronotal and genitalia characteristics.
- PalonicaAnother Smiliini with similar overall appearance; requires detailed examination of pronotal and genitalic features for differentiation.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Léon Fairmaire in 1847. It has been maintained within the tribe Smiliini, Smiliinae, though tribal and subfamily classifications within Membracidae have undergone revisions.
Collection records
Specimens have been identified in recent collections from Mexico, as noted in personal collection records from southern Mexican localities including Oaxaca and Puebla.