Flatidae

Flatidae is a family of planthoppers in the order Hemiptera, commonly known as flatid planthoppers or simply flatids. They are distributed worldwide, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions.

Description:

Flatids are characterized by their wedge-shaped bodies and often brightly colored or patterned wings. Their wings are typically held vertically at rest, resembling the shape of a moth or a leaf, providing camouflage. They range in size from a few millimeters to over a centimeter in length. Nymphs often produce waxy filaments from their abdomens, which may serve as protection or distraction from predators.

Ecology:

Flatids are phloem feeders, meaning they extract sap from plants. They feed on a wide variety of host plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Some species are considered agricultural pests due to their potential to transmit plant diseases or cause direct damage to crops. They can aggregate in large numbers, which can further exacerbate their impact on host plants.

Taxonomy:

The family Flatidae belongs to the superfamily Fulgoroidea. There are numerous genera and species within Flatidae, with ongoing research and taxonomic revisions. Some well-known genera include Metcalfa, Anormenis, and Siphanta. The classification of specific species can be complex and subject to change.

Impact:

While many flatid species are relatively harmless, some can have significant economic impacts as agricultural pests. Their feeding can weaken plants, reduce yields, and transmit diseases. Control measures, such as insecticide application or biological control agents, are sometimes necessary to manage populations of pest species.