Idiocerus canae
This record describes Idiocerus canae (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

This unique specimen resembles weakly patterned individuals of Idiocerus musteus Ball and I. utahnus Ball & Parker, to which species it runs in the key (idem: 830-831). However, the more strongly arched head of canae resembles those of the alternatus species-group (Figs. 9-14) rather than those of the musteus species-group (Fig. 16). The ovipositor and nearly parallel-sided clypellus resemble those of I. huachucae Ball & Parker, which is also an arid-adapted species. The inflation of the frons and widely separated rows of frontal spots are unique. - Hamilton, 1985 Hamilton (1980) treats this species in his musteus -group. However, this species is apparently much more closely related to Idiocerus alternatus and is treated in that group here.
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
- Eurymelinae
- Tribe
- Idiocerini
- Genus
- Idiocerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Known from a single female specimen collected in Alberta
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Sole specimen was collected on Artemisia cana
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Idiocerus canae Hamilton, 1985
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Idiocerus canae. 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 Idiocerus canae (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Solomon V. Hendrix
Frequently Asked Questions About Idiocerus canae
What is Idiocerus canae?
Idiocerus canae is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Idiocerus canae found?
Range: Known from a single female specimen collected in Alberta
What does Idiocerus canae eat?
The diet of the Idiocerus canae includes Sole specimen was collected on Artemisia cana.
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