teofylliini

Teofylliini is a tribe of leafhoppers (insects in the family Cicadellidae) within the order Hemiptera. The exact circumscription and status of Teofylliini have varied among taxonomic treatments; some classifications recognize it as a distinct tribe within the subfamily Deltocephalinae, while others place its included genera in closely related groups. Consequently, the composition and number of species assigned to Teofylliini differ across sources.

Diagnostically, Teofylliini is defined by a combination of morphological traits, often including features of the head, legs, wing venation, and male genitalia. As with many leafhopper groups, there is no single universal character that uniquely defines the tribe; delimitation depends on a suite of characters that may be interpreted differently by researchers.

Geographic distribution and habitat for Teofylliini are broadly tropical and subtropical, with representatives found in various regions of the world. Members of the tribe are sap-feeders, feeding primarily on plant phloem or xylem. They inhabit a range of plant hosts, from herbaceous to woody species, and can be found in natural and disturbed habitats alike.

Ecology and economic significance vary among genera and species. Some Teofylliini species are of minor agricultural concern, while others may act as pests or as vectors for plant pathogens in certain ecosystems. Their ecological roles reflect the broader diversification of leafhoppers, including plant–insect interactions and contributions to food webs.

Phylogenetically, Teofylliini occupies a position within Deltocephalinae that has been clarified only gradually by modern molecular studies. Ongoing research continues to refine its relationships to related tribes and genera.

See also: Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Leafhopper.