A technique for the location of planthopper feeding probes using labial imprints

Abstract

SUMMARYLabial imprints mark precisely a planthopper's feeding probe. By staining a leaf surface with 1 % aniline blue in lactophenol, the labial imprints may be detected. This technique provides a simple method for the location of stylet tracks without having to kill feeding insects in situ. Using the leaf surface staining technique, the labial imprints of Haplaxius crudus van Duzee (Homoptera; Cixiidae), a possible vector of lethal yellowing of coconuts, were shown to be 70–80μm in diameter with a raised central crown. Such imprints are the mirror image of the distal labial surface.