Kybos betulicola
This record describes Kybos betulicola (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4-5 mm. A distinctively coloured genus with several very similar species. The vertex is distinctly rounded compared to other Typhlocybine hoppers. Identification requires dissection and microscopic examination of males, especially the sternal apodemes (internal abdominal structures that are part of the drumming mechanism). Females and nymphs are inseparable, although the host plant provides some indication. There is taxonomic disagreement concerning this species. Kybos betulicola, K. lindbergi and K. ludus may all be synonyms. The UK Checklist recognises the name Kybos betulicola so that is used here. Identification requires dissection and microscopic examination of males, especially the sternal apodemes. Females and nymphs are inseparable. The foodplant is Betula species (Birch) although they may disperse some distance from the food source. Common (ref: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021 ) Not commonly recorded due to identification difficulty. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Kybos_betulicola.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Kybos
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The foodplant is
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
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 Kybos betulicola. 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 Kybos betulicola (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Kybos betulicola
What is Kybos betulicola?
Kybos betulicola is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Kybos betulicola?
4-5 mm. A distinctively coloured genus with several very similar species. The vertex is distinctly rounded compared to other Typhlocybine hoppers. Identification requires dissection and microscopic examination of males, especially the sternal apodemes (internal abdominal structures that are part of the drumming mechanism). Females and nymphs are inseparable, although the host plant provides some indication.
Where is Kybos betulicola found?
Habitat: The foodplant is
When is Kybos betulicola active?
Kybos betulicola: seasonal activity - Summer..