Eupteryx melissae
This record describes Eupteryx melissae (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 mm, associated with Sage and other labiates. Identification of Eupteryx species can be difficult and requires careful examination of markings on vertex, pronotum and forewings. A small pale yellowish-green leafhopper with brown-ringed cells in the forewings and 3 large rounded spots on the vertex. Good quality photographs from side, top down and face to show all spots. On sage, or other labiates - e.g. lemon balm and catmint. Adult: May to October, this species may overwinter Common (ref: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021 ) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Eupteryx_melissae.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
- Typhlocybinae
- Tribe
- Typhlocybini
- Genus
- Eupteryx
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On sage, or other labiates - e.g. lemon balm and catmint.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: May to October, this species may overwinter
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 Eupteryx melissae. 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 Eupteryx melissae (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eupteryx melissae
What is Eupteryx melissae?
Eupteryx melissae is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Eupteryx melissae?
3 mm, associated with Sage and other labiates. Identification of
Where is Eupteryx melissae found?
Habitat: On sage, or other labiates - e.g. lemon balm and catmint.
When is Eupteryx melissae active?
Eupteryx melissae: seasonal activity - Adult: May to October, this species may overwinter.