Melanoliarus caldwelli
(Mead & Kramer, 1982)
Melanoliarus caldwelli is a of planthopper in the Cixiidae, described by Mead and Kramer in 1982. Members of this are small, cryptically colored insects associated with plant roots. The species is native to the southeastern United States. Like other cixiids, are capable of jumping and weak .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanoliarus caldwelli: //ˌmɛlənoʊˈlaɪərəs kældˈwɛlaɪ//
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Identification
Differs from other Melanoliarus by male genitalia structure, particularly the shape of the and parameres. Mead and Kramer (1982) provided diagnostic characters distinguishing M. caldwelli from congeneric species in their original description. Separation from other southeastern US cixiids requires examination of terminalia under magnification.
Appearance
are small planthoppers, likely with dull brown or gray coloration typical of the . Wings are membranous with reduced venation characteristic of Cixiidae. Body form is compact with a somewhat humped . are bristle-like. Nymphs are subterranean and pale in coloration.
Habitat
Associated with herbaceous vegetation and grasses in open . Nymphs develop underground feeding on roots of plants. found on low vegetation near ground level.
Distribution
Southeastern United States, including Florida and surrounding states. Original description based on specimens from Florida.
Diet
Phloem sap from roots (nymphs) and above-ground plant parts (). Specific plants have not been documented.
Life Cycle
Hemimetabolous development with , nymph, and stages. Nymphs are subterranean root-feeders. Adults emerge and disperse to vegetation. Number of per year unknown.
Behavior
Nymphs are sedentary root-feeders. jump when disturbed and are attracted to lights. Weak fliers that stay close to ground vegetation.
Ecological Role
Phloem-feeding herbivore. Serves as prey for including spiders and other arthropods. May plant , though this has not been documented for this .
Human Relevance
No documented economic importance. Occasionally attracted to lights and may enter buildings. Not a known agricultural pest.
Similar Taxa
- Melanoliarus placitusOverlapping distribution in southeastern US; distinguished by male genitalia
- Melanoliarus humilisSympatric requiring genital dissection for reliable separation
- Oliarus speciesRelated cixiid with similar external appearance; differs in wing venation and genitalia
More Details
Original Description
Described by F.W. Mead and J.P. Kramer in 1982 in the Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. The epithet honors Dr. R.L. Caldwell.