Oncopsis tristis
This record describes Oncopsis tristis (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.7 - 4.6; smaller than other two species on Birch; females larger than males. Sexually dimorphic and variable in colouration and intensity of markings. There is usually a band across the face between the eyes, darker in males. Males have grey/brown pronotum, chestnut brown scutellum often with 2 black basal triangles; smoky forewings with black-brown veins, a more or less rounded brown spot on the cross-vein ( m-cu ) of the forewing, and darkened usually apical cells. Females have chestnut brown vertex, pronotum and scutellum, and brown wings often with hyaline patches; they have a short ovipositor. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed. Photograph specimen in side view, top down and face; note length and whether male/female. You must note the host plant from which you collected the specimen. Common. (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021, on British Bugs website) Rarely recorded; likely to be under-recorded due to ID difficulty. https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Oncopsis_tristis.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Oncopsis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Birch
Seasonal Activity
Adult: June to September.
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 Oncopsis tristis. 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 Oncopsis tristis (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oncopsis tristis
What is Oncopsis tristis?
Oncopsis tristis is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Oncopsis tristis?
3.7 - 4.6; smaller than other two species on Birch; females larger than males. Sexually dimorphic and variable in colouration and intensity of markings. There is usually a band across the face between the eyes, darker in males. Males have grey/brown pronotum, chestnut brown scutellum often with 2 black basal triangles; smoky forewings with black-brown veins, a more or less rounded brown spot on the cross-vein (
Where is Oncopsis tristis found?
Habitat: Birch
When is Oncopsis tristis active?
Oncopsis tristis: seasonal activity - Adult: June to September..