Macrosteles laevis
This record describes Macrosteles laevis (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3-4mm. Macrosteles is an extremely difficult and diverse genus. The vertex has several dark spots or bars and the frons has dark markings; both features are variable. The forewings are greyish or green-yellow, often with brown longitudinal streaks, patches or stripes, but colour and amount of the darker markings varies. Dissection of the male to examine the internal genitalia - the aedeagus - or the internal abdominal structure - sternal apodemes - is needed to identify. Microscopic examination and dissection required. Common. (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021 on British Bugs website)
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
- Deltocephalinae
- Tribe
- Macrostelini
- Genus
- Macrosteles
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Common on grassland.
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 Macrosteles laevis. 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 Macrosteles laevis (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrosteles laevis
What is Macrosteles laevis?
Macrosteles laevis is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Macrosteles laevis?
3-4mm.
Where is Macrosteles laevis found?
Habitat: Common on grassland.