Dikraneura variata
This record describes Dikraneura variata (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 mm. The eye shape is significantly longer than high and a line joining the rear points of the eyes would meet around half-way across the pronotum. There is a slightly swollen base to the final (long) antennal segment. Usually greenish, with a pale steak down the vertex, but a brown-red form is occasional, especially in overwintering individuals. Photograph from side and from top down to show eye position. Adult: February to October, but sometimes overwintering. Common (ref: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021 ) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Dikraneura_variata.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Dikraneura
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Heaths and other grassy places.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: February to October, but sometimes overwintering.
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 Dikraneura variata. 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 Dikraneura variata (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dikraneura variata
What is Dikraneura variata?
Dikraneura variata is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Dikraneura variata?
3 mm. The eye shape is significantly longer than high and a line joining the rear points of the eyes would meet around half-way across the pronotum. There is a slightly swollen base to the final (long) antennal segment. Usually greenish, with a pale steak down the vertex, but a brown-red form is occasional, especially in overwintering individuals.
Where is Dikraneura variata found?
Habitat: Heaths and other grassy places.
When is Dikraneura variata active?
Dikraneura variata: seasonal activity - Adult: February to October, but sometimes overwintering..