Piglet Bugs

Caliscelidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Caliscelidae: //kæ.lɪˈsɛ.lɪ.diː//

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

Images

Bruchomorpha decorata by Rodolfosalinas. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Bruchomorpha oculata P1000792a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Bruchomorpha oculata P1000796a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
2019 06 30 Caliscelis bonellii by Slimguy. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Caliscelidae, commonly known as piglet bugs, are a family of small planthoppers characterized by their short wings, cylindrical body shape, and specialized feeding adaptations. They primarily inhabit grassy areas and are sap-sucking insects that contribute to their ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Small, cylindrical planthoppers that are brachypterous (rarely macropterous), with the wings much shorter than the abdomen. Caliscelids have a single lateral spine on the hind tibia, distinguishing them from similar families.

Identification Tips

Look for a small, cylindrical body shape and short wings that do not extend beyond the abdomen. Caliscelids can be identified by the single lateral spine on the hind tibia.

Habitat

Primarily found in grasslands and areas with abundant grasses, particularly in the central and southwestern United States.

Distribution

Globally distributed, with ~200 species in ~64 genera; in the U.S., primarily in the central and southwestern regions.

Diet

Most species feed on grasses, sucking sap from plant tissues.

Life Cycle

Development from egg to adult averages 68 days, as observed in a laboratory study.

Reproduction

Insight into specific reproductive behaviors is limited, but sexual dimorphism is noted among some species.

Ecosystem Role

As sap-sucking insects, they play a role in the trophic dynamics of their ecosystems, potentially affecting plant health and serving as prey for various predators.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweep netting
  • Hand collection
  • Aerial netting

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinned specimens
  • Slide mounts

Evolution

Historically classified as a subfamily of Issidae, molecular studies in 2013 supported their classification as a distinct family.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Incorrectly grouped with Issidae due to similar morphology; unique traits distinguish them from similar planthoppers.

Tags

  • Caliscelidae
  • Piglet Bugs
  • Planthoppers
  • Hemiptera
  • Auchenorrhyncha