Macropsis scutellata
This record describes Macropsis scutellata (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5mm. Pale yellow with dark brown wing veins and a very dark inner margin to the clavus. The facial markings variable but the two lower dark marks often resemble arrowheads. Markings on the pronotum are also variable. Good quality photographs taken from top, side and front. Normally found on nettles, it is the only species in the genus using this host plant. Common. (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021, on British Bugs website) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Macropsis_scutellata.html
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Macropsis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On nettles.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to October
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Normally found on nettles, it is the only species in the genus using this host plant.
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 Macropsis scutellata. 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 Macropsis scutellata (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Macropsis scutellata
What is Macropsis scutellata?
Macropsis scutellata is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Macropsis scutellata?
5mm. Pale yellow with dark brown wing veins and a very dark inner margin to the clavus. The facial markings variable but the two lower dark marks often resemble arrowheads. Markings on the pronotum are also variable.
Where is Macropsis scutellata found?
Habitat: On nettles.
When is Macropsis scutellata active?
Macropsis scutellata: seasonal activity - Adult: June to October.
What is the life cycle of a Macropsis scutellata?
Normally found on nettles, it is the only species in the genus using this host plant.