psiliids

Psiliids are a small family of leafhoppers (family Psilidae) that belong to the order Hemiptera. The group is composed of genera such as Psilus, Pseudanarchia and others, and contains approximately 30–40 described species worldwide. Psiliids are typically small to medium in size, with adults ranging from 5 to 10 millimetre in length. They possess the characteristic piercing‑sucking mouthparts of true bugs, used for feeding on plant phloem.

Morphologically, psiliids are distinguished by a relatively broad, rounded forewing (tegmen) and a distinctive venation pattern that sets them apart from other leafhopper families. Their coloration is often subdued, with shades of brown, green, or grey, which provides camouflage in their natural habitats. Many species exhibit a flattened body and well-developed hind legs suited for jumping.

Ecologically, psiliids are primarily phytophagous, feeding on a variety of host plants including grasses, shrubs, and herbaceous species. They are usually found in open habitats such as grasslands, forest edges and agricultural fields. Their feeding can cause mild damage to crops by inducing leaf wilting or transmitting plant pathogens, though they are generally considered of low economic importance compared with larger leafhopper families.

The life cycle of psiliids involves complete metamorphosis: egg, nymph (multiple instars), and adult. Nymphs resemble smaller adults and share the same host plants, while eggs are laid in clusters on stems or leaves. Overwinters species in the egg or nymphal stage depending on climatic conditions.

Research on psiliids has largely focused on taxonomy and biogeography. Several regional checklists exist for Europe, Asia, and North America, documenting species diversity and distribution. Because of their relatively low abundance and specialized host associations, psiliids are of interest mainly to entomologists and ecologists studying leafhopper communities and plant‑insect interactions.