Psylloidea
Psylloidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Sternorrhyncha
- Superfamily: Psylloidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Psylloidea: /sɪˈlɔɪdiə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Psylloidea is a superfamily encompassing jumping plant lice and other bugs, known for their specific host plant associations and distinct morphological traits.
Physical Characteristics
Adults have a transverse head with protuberant eyes, three ocelli, usually 10-segmented antennae, and wings with reduced but conspicuous venation. Size ranges from 1-10 mm.
Identification Tips
Identify by their distinct transverse head and protuberant eyes. The presence of ocelli and specific antennae segmentation can aid in further identification.
Habitat
Psylloidea are associated almost exclusively with dicotyledons, with few species found on monocots and only four species on conifers.
Distribution
Psylloidea are found worldwide, with the highest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions.
Diet
Nymphs and adults primarily feed on the sap of host plants, which are typically specific to certain taxa of dicotyledons.
Life Cycle
Nymphs undergo five larval stages before maturing into adults. Most native species are univoltine, while some introduced tropical species can have multiple generations per year.
Reproduction
Reproduction and life cycles are closely tied to host plants; some species create galls or lerps as part of their life cycle.
Ecosystem Role
Psylloidea play a role in the ecosystem as herbivores and potential pests affecting host plants.
Economic Impact
Certain species can have significant agricultural impacts as pests of crops due to their feeding habits.
Collecting Methods
- Insect nets
- Sticky traps
- Hand collection
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pin mounting
- Slide mounting
Evolution
The superfamily Psylloidea first appeared during the Early Jurassic, but modern members appeared in the Eocene. Some Mesozoic members are considered paraphyletic due to family classifications.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Despite the name 'lice', they are not true lice. They are an entirely different group of Hemiptera.
Tags
- Psylloidea
- Insecta
- Hemiptera
- Plant Lice
- Bugs