Viridicerus ustulatus
This record describes Viridicerus ustulatus (species). Recorded family: Cicadellidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4-5mm. A bright green leafhopper, small than others in this subfamily, with the scutellum and inner margins of the wings dark reddish-brown. The antennae are long. Good photographs of a specmen required; from top, side and face; note host plant On grey and white poplar. Overwinters on evergreens, particularly Yew. A fairly recent incomer to the UK, spreading north. Common (ref.: UK Auchenorrhyncha checklist 2021) https://www.britishbugs.org.uk/homoptera/Cicadellidae/Idiocerus_ustulatus.html No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera
- Family
- Cicadellidae
- Genus
- Viridicerus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On grey and white poplar. Overwinters on evergreens, particularly Yew.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A fairly recent incomer to the UK, spreading north. Common (ref.:
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Viridicerus ustulatus. 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 Viridicerus ustulatus (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Viridicerus ustulatus
What is Viridicerus ustulatus?
Viridicerus ustulatus is a species in the family Cicadellidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Viridicerus ustulatus?
4-5mm. A bright green leafhopper, small than others in this subfamily, with the scutellum and inner margins of the wings dark reddish-brown. The antennae are long.
Where is Viridicerus ustulatus found?
Habitat: On grey and white poplar. Overwinters on evergreens, particularly Yew.
When is Viridicerus ustulatus active?
Viridicerus ustulatus: seasonal activity - All year..