Codon (planthopper)

A codon, in the context of planthoppers (Insecta: Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha), is a taxonomic term referring to a specific segment or unit within the male pygofer (genital capsule). The pygofer is a structure located at the posterior end of the male abdomen and is crucial for copulation. Within the pygofer, various structures, often highly complex and species-specific, are used for taxonomic identification and to understand the evolutionary relationships between different planthopper species.

The "codon," as used by some researchers (note that usage may vary depending on specific taxonomic groups and researchers), refers to a particular, often sclerotized (hardened), component or region within the pygofer. This component is visually distinct and consistently identifiable across individuals of a given species. Its shape, size, and orientation relative to other pygoferal structures provide valuable characters for distinguishing between closely related species. Descriptions of codons are usually accompanied by detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations in taxonomic publications. Its exact histological origin and function are not always completely understood in all planthopper groups. However, its significance lies in its use as a reliable morphological character for species identification and phylogenetic analysis within the Fulgoromorpha.

It's important to note that the term "codon" in this context is distinct from its more common usage in genetics, where it refers to a sequence of three nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid during protein synthesis. The similarity in terminology is coincidental.