Hubbellia
Hebard, 1927
Hubbellia is a of in the , established by Hebard in 1927. The sole described , H. marginifera, is among the rarest in the United States, with approximately 40 specimens collected despite over a century of entomological work. Its extreme rarity and habits have made it a notable subject for researchers.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hubbellia: //hʌˈbɛliə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a , members of this possess the characteristic enlarged, shield-like that extends backward over the , distinguishing them from other groups. The single H. marginifera can be distinguished from other Tettigoniinae by specific margin features referenced in its epithet, though precise diagnostic characters require examination of .
Images
Habitat
Pine tree in southeastern United States forests. The lifestyle and height of preferred contribute to its rarity in collections.
Distribution
Southeastern United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and North Carolina.
Host Associations
- Pinus - lives in of pine trees
Behavior
; occupies upper of pine trees, which contributes to difficulty in and collection.
Human Relevance
Of interest to and due to its extreme rarity; one of the most rarely encountered in the United States.
Similar Taxa
- Other Tettigoniinae generaSimilar shield-backed , but distinguished by specific pronotal and margin characteristics in H. marginifera
- Other katydid subfamilies differ in having enlarged covering , unlike meadow (Conocephalinae) or bush katydids (Phaneropterinae)
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Morgan Hebard in 1927. Despite its description nearly a century ago, the single remains poorly known due to collection difficulties.