Neomegamelanus lautus
(Metcalf, 1923)
Neomegamelanus lautus is a delphacid planthopper in the Delphacidae, first described by Metcalf in 1923. It belongs to a characterized by relatively large size among delphacids. The has been documented in limited numbers, with 18 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neomegamelanus lautus: /niː.oʊˌmɛɡəˈmeɪlənəs ˈlaʊtəs/
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Identification
As a member of Neomegamelanus, this is distinguished from most other delphacids by its larger body size. Species-level identification within the requires examination of male genitalia and other fine morphological characters not reliably determined from photographs alone.
Distribution
Recorded from the southern United States (Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas) and Veracruz, Mexico. The GBIF distribution records indicate presence in Middle America.
Similar Taxa
- Other Neomegamelanus speciesCongeneric share the large body size characteristic of the and require detailed morphological examination for separation.
- Other large delphacid planthoppersSize overlap occurs with some other delphacid ; accurate identification requires reference to specialized taxonomic keys.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Neomegamelanus was established to accommodate relatively large delphacid previously placed in other genera. The specific epithet 'lautus' is Latin, meaning elegant or refined.