Bothriocerinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bothriocerinae: //ˌbɒθri.oʊˈsɛrɪniː//

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

Images

Summary

Bothriocerinae is a subfamily of the Cixiidae family, encompassing various small insects known as planthoppers, primarily found in the Americas and recognized for their feeding on plant roots and providing economic relevance due to their association with crop diseases.

Physical Characteristics

Typically small (body size less than a centimeter), with longer faces than width, narrower heads compared to the pronotum, and forewings that are at least partly transparent with minute setae on the veins. Hind tibiae end in a cluster of spines, with some spines along their length.

Identification Tips

Look for the long face and narrow head, which are characteristic of Cixiidae. The body size and transparent forewings can also assist in identification.

Habitat

Primarily found in underground habitats as nymphs, feeding on roots; adults inhabit herbs, shrubs, and trees.

Distribution

Distributed worldwide, particularly in the Americas for the subfamily Bothriocerinae.

Diet

Nymphs feed on roots, while adults feed on a variety of plants including herbs, shrubs, and trees. Some are polyphagous, while others are specialized (monophagous) on specific host plants. Some species are known to be cavernicolous.

Life Cycle

Nymphs live underground and feed on roots. The life cycle typically includes a juvenile nymph phase followed by the adult phase.

Reproduction

Females may produce 'wax tails' from wax-producing plates at the tip of their abdomen, which can help in species identification or may play a role in mating.

Ecosystem Role

Act as herbivores in their ecosystems and may facilitate nutrient cycling through their feeding habits.

Economic Impact

Several species, such as Hyalesthes obsoletus and Haplaxius crudus, are of economic importance, potentially affecting agriculture by being associated with phytoplasma that cause diseases in various crops.

Health Concerns

Phytoplasma parasites associated with these insects can lead to diseases in important crops like coconut palms, grapevines, and sugar beets.

Evolution

The fossil record is limited, with confirmed taxa present from as early as the Early Cretaceous. Re-examination of some family placements is suggested due to fossil uncertainties.

Tags

• planthoppers
• Cixiidae
• Bothriocerinae
• insects
• agricultural pests