Prokelisia salina

(Ball, 1902)

Prokelisia salina is a of planthopper in the Delphacidae, first described by Ball in 1902. It belongs to a of small, delicate insects commonly known as or planthoppers that are associated with grasses and sedges. The species epithet 'salina' suggests an association with saline or salt-affected . Like other delphacids, it possesses a characteristic spur on the hind tibia and feeds on plant sap using .

Prokelisia salina by (c) Elliott Gordon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Elliott Gordon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Prokelisia salina: /proʊˈkɛliːziə səˈlaɪnə/

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Identification

Prokelisia salina can be distinguished from other Prokelisia by genitalia , particularly the male parameres and , and female ovipositor structure. The specific epithet 'salina' may indicate preference for salt-affected areas, potentially separating it from . Accurate identification requires examination of microscopic characters; external morphology alone is often insufficient for species-level determination in this .

Images

Appearance

Small, delicate planthopper typical of the Delphacidae. Members of Prokelisia are generally pale-colored with a somewhat flattened or cylindrical body form. The hind tibia bears a characteristic large, mobile spur (calcar) that is diagnostic for the family. Wings are membranous and held roof-like over the body at rest. are relatively short and bristle-like.

Habitat

Associated with salt-affected or saline , as suggested by the epithet 'salina'. Likely found in coastal salt marshes, alkali flats, or inland saline areas where grasses occur. Specific host plant associations are not well documented but are presumed to be grasses (Poaceae) or sedges (Cyperaceae) typical of such environments.

Distribution

Recorded from western North America including Arizona, California, Colorado, and British Columbia in Canada, and Coahuila in Mexico. The distribution pattern suggests to arid or semi-arid regions with saline .

Diet

Feeds on plant sap, likely from grasses or sedges in saline . Specific plant records are not documented in available sources.

Ecological Role

As a phloem-feeding insect, it likely functions as a herbivore in grassland and salt marsh . Its role in nutrient cycling and as potential prey for in these is presumed but not documented.

Human Relevance

No documented economic importance. Not known as a significant agricultural pest. Potential for saline conditions.

Similar Taxa

Prokelisia marginataCongeneric with similar and preferences; distinguished by genitalia characters and potentially by geographic distribution and salinity .
Other Delphacidae generaSimilar body plan and calcar presence; Prokelisia distinguished by specific wing venation patterns and genitalia structure.

More Details

Taxonomic history

Originally described as Kelisia salina by Ball in 1902, later transferred to the Prokelisia. The genus Prokelisia contains multiple of small planthoppers primarily associated with grasses.

Data availability

Limited biological and ecological data are available for this . Most information is derived from taxonomic databases and collection records rather than focused research studies.