Leafhopper - Zygina sp. ?

Gerel · #1 (**permalink**) 23-02-2010, 05:09 PM

Hi,

spotted this chap today in amongst a load of detritus in one of our sheds. I'm guessing Z. angusta, but realise that this is a tricky genus, especially as this is the only angle I've got.

Cheers

Steve

tristanba · #2 (**permalink**) 23-02-2010, 05:52 PM

Hi Steve,

As you say a difficult genus and angle but the darkened clavus strongly suggests Z. angusta. The hind tarsus is pale making it a female.

Cheers
Tristan

Gerel · #3 (**permalink**) 23-02-2010, 07:10 PM

Thanks Tristan,

I'll count it as a probable Z. angusta (and amend chap to chapess

)

We've got about 6" of snow here at the mo (and more falling) so this was a welcome reminder that there is still life hiding out there.

(BTW judging from some of your recent Flikr posts you've managed to avoid at least some of the weather this winter.)

Steve

tristanba · #4 (**permalink**) 23-02-2010, 07:26 PM

Cheers Steve,

It's amazing how many hoppers can be found on evergreens even in a very cold winter such as this - granted there are not lots of species but they certainly don't mind the weather. Most of the Zygina sp overwinter as adults.

Tristan