Metidiocerus rutilans
This record describes Metidiocerus rutilans (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 5 mm. The forewings are reddish-brown at the base, and hyaline in the apical third, with several white spots along the cubital vein. The scutellum is mainly brown with a pale apex; other small pale marks may be present and the dark triangles are often faint or absent. Males have a plain, yellowish face. The distance between the ocelli is less than the distance between ocellus and antennal base. The genae (lower part of face - 'cheeks') are hairy, more so in the male. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify this species. Take photographs of top, side and face, and note host plant Around willows and sometimes evergreens in winter. Common. (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021, on British Bugs website) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Idiocerus_rutilans.html
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Metidiocerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around willows and sometimes evergreens in winter.
Seasonal Activity
Adult: April to November.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Often overwintering on pines.
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 Metidiocerus rutilans. 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 Metidiocerus rutilans (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Metidiocerus rutilans
What is Metidiocerus rutilans?
Metidiocerus rutilans is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Metidiocerus rutilans?
about 5 mm. The forewings are reddish-brown at the base, and hyaline in the apical third, with several white spots along the cubital vein. The scutellum is mainly brown with a pale apex; other small pale marks may be present and the dark triangles are often faint or absent. Males have a plain, yellowish face. The distance between the ocelli is less than the distance between ocellus and antennal base. The genae (lower part of face - 'cheeks') are hairy, more so in the male.
Where is Metidiocerus rutilans found?
Habitat: Around willows and sometimes evergreens in winter.
When is Metidiocerus rutilans active?
Metidiocerus rutilans: seasonal activity - Adult: April to November..
What is the life cycle of a Metidiocerus rutilans?
Often overwintering on pines.