Pelitropis rotulata
This record describes Pelitropis rotulata (species). Recorded family: Tropiduchidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance

The flattened head is distinctive, as are the crossveins that define an oval space near the wing tips. [The nymphs are] recognizable by the bright red tail lights. [Dr Hamilton's comments here and here ] taken mostly at lights (sometimes beating) ( 3 )
Wikipedia reference for Pelitropis rotulata: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelitropis_rotulata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Auchenorrhyncha
- Superfamily
- Fulgoroidea
- Family
- Tropiduchidae (Tropiduchid Planthoppers)
- Subfamily
- Tropiduchinae
- Tribe
- Tangiini
- Genus
- Pelitropis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
se. US (e.TX-FL-MD); Cuba - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly: Apr-Oct
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pelitropis rotulata Van Duzee 1908
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Pelitropis rotulata. 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 Pelitropis rotulata (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by john and jane balaban; Additional contributions by Steve Nanz , Mike Quinn , v belov , Harsi S. Parker
Frequently Asked Questions About Pelitropis rotulata
What is Pelitropis rotulata?
Pelitropis rotulata is a species in the family Tropiduchidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Pelitropis rotulata?
7 mm
How do you identify Pelitropis rotulata?
The flattened head is distinctive, as are the crossveins that define an oval space near the wing tips. [The nymphs are] recognizable by the bright red tail lights. [Dr Hamilton's comments here and here ]
Where is Pelitropis rotulata found?
Range: se. US (e.TX-FL-MD); Cuba - Map
When is Pelitropis rotulata active?
Pelitropis rotulata: seasonal activity - mostly: Apr-Oct.
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