Aclerda

Signoret, 1874

flat grass scales

Aclerda is a of ( ) commonly known as flat grass . in this genus are legless as , with strongly reduced 1-segmented and a unique apparatus. They inhabit leaf of grasses in hot, dry regions. The genus includes both sexually and parthenogenetically reproducing species, with unusual cytogenetic systems including heterochromatinization of one set in males of some species.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Aclerda: /əˈklɜːrdə/

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

Identification

are legless with strongly reduced 1-segmented . The apparatus is unique to the . Invaginated are present. These features distinguish Aclerda from other genera.

Habitat

Hot and dry environments, often semi-desert regions. Found in leaf of grasses (Poaceae). Specific collection sites include dry primary forest interrupted by agricultural , sandy burrows, and chaotic agricultural plantations after recent deforestation.

Distribution

Widespread in tropical and subtropical zones. Documented from Africa (Egypt, Mauritius, Reunion), Asia (Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan), North America (Haiti, USA-Florida), Oceania (Guam, Indonesia/New Guinea), and South America (Brazil, Colombia).

Diet

Feeds on grasses (Poaceae); specifically documented from (Saccharum officinarum, Saccharum sp.) and undetermined grass .

Host Associations

  • Poaceae - undetermined grass
  • Saccharum officinarum -
  • Saccharum sp. -

Life Cycle

; all stages of embryonic development occur inside the mother's body. Some exhibit male stages (male , , ultimonymphs with sperm bundles); others lack male stages entirely.

Ecological Role

Documented for in the ( Comones).

Human Relevance

Aclerda takahashii is a documented pest of in Florida and other regions.

Similar Taxa

  • NipponaclerdaAlso in ; distinguished by morphological features detailed in taxonomic
  • Other Aclerdidae generaAclerda distinguished by legless , reduced 1-segmented , and unique apparatus

Tags

Sources and further reading