Otiocerini is a tribe of planthoppers in the Derbidae, Otiocerinae. Members are characterized by elongated, often delicate bodies with distinctive . The tribe was established by Muir in 1917 and contains multiple distributed primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. These insects are part of the diverse planthopper fauna associated with woody vegetation.
Identification
Otiocerini can be distinguished from other derbid tribes by features of the and wing venation, including an elongated and characteristic branching patterns in the forewing. The head is often produced anteriorly with the frons longer than wide. are relatively short with a globose . Members lack the extreme head modifications seen in some other derbid tribes such as Rhotanini.
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Habitat
Associated with tropical and subtropical forests, particularly in association with palms and other woody monocots. Many inhabit the or understory of primary and secondary forests.
Distribution
Primarily distributed in tropical regions of the Old World, including Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of Africa. Some extend into subtropical areas.
Host Associations
- palms - many associated with Arecaceae
- woody monocots - general association with monocotyledonous trees and shrubs
Similar Taxa
- RhotaniniSimilar tribe in Derbidae, but distinguished by shape and wing venation; Rhotanini often have more elaborate head processes
- ZoraidiniAnother Otiocerinae tribe; differs in details of genitalia and wing venation patterns
More Details
Taxonomic history
The tribe Otiocerini was established by Frederick Arthur Godfrey Muir in 1917. The classification of Derbidae tribes has undergone revision, with Otiocerini remaining a relatively stable grouping based on consistent morphological characters.