Balclutha punctata
This record describes Balclutha punctata (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4 mm. A very variable species, sometimes heavily spotted or with dark streaks in a characteristic pattern, but also may be faintly spotted or unmarked. Colour varies from whitish or pale green, to yellowish, pinkish or pale orange. The pattern on the scutellum is the most helpful feature for identification. Grassland, adults overwinter on evergreens Common. (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021 on British Bugs website) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Balclutha_punctata.html
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Auchenorrhyncha
- Superfamily
- Membracoidea
- Family
- Cicadellidae (Typical Leafhoppers)
- Subfamily
- Deltocephalinae
- Tribe
- Macrostelini
- Genus
- Balclutha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland, adults overwinter on evergreens
Seasonal Activity
Adult: February to November.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common. (ref.:
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Balclutha punctata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Balclutha punctata (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Balclutha punctata
What is Balclutha punctata?
Balclutha punctata is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Balclutha punctata?
4 mm. A very variable species, sometimes heavily spotted or with dark streaks in a characteristic pattern, but also may be faintly spotted or unmarked. Colour varies from whitish or pale green, to yellowish, pinkish or pale orange. The pattern on the scutellum is the most helpful feature for identification.
Where is Balclutha punctata found?
Habitat: Grassland, adults overwinter on evergreens
When is Balclutha punctata active?
Balclutha punctata: seasonal activity - Adult: February to November..