Metcalfa pruinosa (Say)
Adults of M. pruinosa vary in color from brown to gray, owing in large part to the thickness of their covering of waxy secretions (see photos below). Individuals may have more or less the bluish white waxy powder and this waxy pruinosity is the likely source of the specific name “pruinosa.” Eyes are typically red. A pair of dark spots on the basal half of the forewing is another key feature of the species. Nymphs of many Fulgoroids produce wax from special glands on the abdominal terga and other parts of the body. Such waxy secretions are hydrophobic and may serve as a means of camouflage.
Mature nymphs are nearly 4 mm in length, excluding their fragile waxy filaments. Earlier stages are smaller, depending on the instar, but are generally less than twice as long as wide.
Dead specimen from the NCSU Insect Museum Collection
Living Specimen with color change due to waxy covering.
Copyright © 2008 Scott Justis
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