A planthopper (Lystra pulverulenta) showing off its waxy filaments

These are also called Wax-tailed Planthoppers or Waxy-tailed Planthoppers, but that name is also used for their cousin Pterodictya reticularis (https://www.jungledragon.com/specie/14717/wax-tailed_planthopper_pterodictya_reticularis.html)

comments (9)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

John, want to get your opinion on this one:

In the area I photographed, both Lystra lanata (your photo) and Lystra pulverulenta occur. I'm trying to come to a reliable distinction between the two. I'm puzzled by the "Red-dotted" common name as I'm not seeing red dots anywhere except near the eyes, yet both species seem to have this.

After comparing tons of images side by side, the only structural and fairly reliable difference I see between the species is that Lystra lanata has dark wings across the entire length of the body, whereas Lystra pulverulenta has mostly light wings abruptly transitioning into a dark end of the wings. This seems to be the case for almost all individuals, with only a few exceptions (which may be variability or misidentified).

Wonder what your thoughts are on this? Posted 3 years ago, modified 3 years ago
1. John Sullivan
  
  Lion
  
  Hey Ferdy, I think you're right. I added a comment to your observation. Posted 3 years ago
2. 1. John Sullivan
    
    Lion
    
    Hmm, on the other hand, if yours is pulverulenta then I think mine is also... Looking a little more. Posted 3 years ago
  2. 1. John Sullivan
      
      Lion
      
      I looked through my photos and I seem to have photos of both species. I think this one is L. pulverulenta, but I also have photos where the white area is much smaller. I will post one of those shortly, and re-identify this one. Posted 3 years ago
    2. 1. Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        Thank you, John. I was thinking the same thing, that yours is either a doubtful one (could go either way) or leaning more towards pulverulenta.
        
        Would be cool if you have the other species, I think we then documented the entire genus hehe. Posted 3 years ago
      2. John Sullivan
        
        Lion
        
        As you noticed, the other one is now documented here:
        
        I'm "sorry" to report that I stole the first-observation badge for L. pulverulenta from you! Posted 3 years ago
        
        Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        Hehe, great with the air quotes. It's a fair rule-based system, you may unexpectedly gain some or lose some. It's a pretty infrequent thing to happen. Of no concern to me as future species millionaire. Posted 3 years ago
        
        John Sullivan
        
        Lion
        
        I am sure you realize that I do not take this seriously either. But it is fun to joke about! Posted 3 years ago
        
        Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        Of course I do, fun competition is the best competition :) Posted 3 years ago