Smilia

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Infraorder: Cicadomorpha
Superfamily: Membracoidea
Family: Membracidae
Subfamily: Smiliinae
Tribe: Smiliini
Genus: Smilia

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Smilia: //ˈsmiː.li.a//

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

Images

Smilia castaneae by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Smilia auriculata by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Smilia querci by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Smilia is a genus of treehoppers in the Smiliini tribe, featuring species distinguished by their unique pronotal characteristics. There are at least two recognized species, Smilia camelus and Smilia fasciata, each with distinct geographical ranges and morphological traits.

Physical Characteristics

Species show a distinct crest on the pronotum, which is greatly enlarged and can obscure the dorsal thoracic plates. Smilia species exhibit small clear regions along the top part of the pronotum, known as 'windows.' The shape of the crest may vary; for example, Smilia camelus has a very steep incline anteriorly, while Smilia fasciata's crest is more sinuate in form.

Identification Tips

Distinguish between Smilia camelus and Smilia fasciata by examining the shape and steepness of the crest on the pronotum. Direct lateral views are helpful to clearly observe these characteristics. Smilia fasciata is smaller and is found less commonly further north than Smilia camelus.

Distribution

Smilia camelus is widespread in eastern North America and reaches southeastern Canada, Texas, and California. Smilia fasciata is found from New Jersey to Florida and generally does not extend significantly further north or inland.