Haplaxius
Haplaxius
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
- Infraorder: Fulgoromorpha
- Superfamily: Delphacoidea
- Family: Cixiidae
- Subfamily: Cixiinae
- Tribe: Oecleini
- Genus: Haplaxius
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Haplaxius: //hæpˈlæksiəs//
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Summary
Haplaxius is a genus of cixiid planthoppers comprising around 60 described species, found predominantly across the Americas and known for their role as herbivores and disease vectors in certain plant systems.
Physical Characteristics
Cixiid planthoppers, typically with a flattened body and long antennae.
Identification Tips
Look for their distinctive shape and the presence of wings that are held roof-like over the body when at rest.
Habitat
Primarily found in areas where host plants, particularly monocots, are abundant; can also be found in other vegetation such as poplars and pines.
Distribution
New World, ranging from Canada to Argentina, with some presence in the West Indies.
Diet
Mainly feeds on sap from various monocot plants, though some species also feed on other plants such as poplars and pines.
Life Cycle
Complete metamorphosis, including egg, nymph, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproduce sexually, with females laying eggs in suitable plant material.
Predators
Natural predators may include birds, foraging insects, and other arthropods that prey on planthoppers.
Ecosystem Role
As sap-sucking herbivores, they play a role in the food web and can affect plant health.
Economic Impact
Haplaxius crudus is known to be a vector for coconut lethal yellowing, significantly impacting coconut agriculture.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep sampling
- Netting
- Attracting with light traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning
- Drying in a specimen book
Evolution
Part of a larger clade within the order Hemiptera, showing evolutionary adaptations for sap feeding.
Similar Taxa
- Myndus
- Delphax
- Pachypsylla
Misconceptions
May be mistaken for leafhoppers or other similar planthoppers due to their appearance.
Tags
- insecta
- hemiptera
- cixiidae
- planthoppers
- agriculture
- pest management