Stirellus bicolor

Appearance

A very distinctive looking leafhopper, distinguished from other species by its very narrow head, with the eyes separated only by their own width (BG). This species is highly variable in color, with several different forms. The "summer", iridescent form has yellowish-green wings and thorax with noticeable bluish-black patches and lines. The head and thorax have three transverse black bands, and the face is black. However, some "summer" individuals can show faint or non-existent black markings. Other individuals can have a "stressed" appearance, showing the colorful body of the "summer" form but pale, almost transparent wings of the spring brood. A southern form, only occurring in the southern states, resembles the "summer" form except the wings are a solid bluish-black color. The "winter" form is brownish overall with some small black markings on the thorax and head. Depending on the temperature and time of year, some individuals can show traits of both "summer" and "winter" forms. Adult females can be distinguished from males, as they have an abdomen that extends far past the wing tips.

Nymphs are variable in coloration, ranging from reddish-brown to purplish to vibrant blue, with yellow eyes and the characteristic pointed, narrow head.

Distinguished from other greyish leafhoppers by very narrow head, with eyes separated by only their own width. Two color forms; one occurs in cooler temperatures, the other in hot summers. The bright colors are brought out by longer day lengths and higher temperatures.

Naming

Stirellus obtusus (Van Duzee, 1892)

Stirellus bicolor and Stirellus obtutus are photoperiodically induced color forms of a single species.

Distribution

Eastern US (New Jersey to Nebraska, Florida to Arizona and south to Brazil.

Habitat

Grassy, brushy areas such as fields; also forest edge and open forest.

Food

Stirellus bicolor feeds on bluestem (Andropogon spp.) grasses and broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus). One of several leafhopper vectors of corn stunt spiroplasma.