Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Author: Dallas, 1852 (Original genus: Metapodius)
Explanation of Names
TERMINALIS: probably a reference to the terminal (apical) segment of the antenna, which is orange and contrasts with the 3 dark basal segments; however, this characteristic is shared with 3 of the 4 other species of Acanthocephala in North America.
Identification
Apical segment of antenna orange or yellowish, contrasting sharply with the basal three segments, which are dark; flange on hind tibia wavy-margined, narrowing distally and extending only two-thirds the length of the tibia; pronotum with small but distinct tubercles present, surface with covering of golden hairs; abdomen sinuate in outline, the sides of the abdomen bulging outward beyond the wings when viewed from above (these last three characteristics distinguish A. terminalis from A. confraterna).
Range
from Texas and Colorado east to Michigan, through southern Ontario to New England states, and south to Florida (PDF docs on
U. of Florida page)
Habitat
shrubs in woodlands or wood edges; fields and meadows
Season
adults in spring and summer
Food
nymphs and adults suck plant juices
Remarks
A. terminalis is the only Acanthocephala species occurring north of North Carolina.
See Also
A. confraterna is similar but has an almost parallel-sided abdomen whose edges do not bulge outward beyond the wings when viewed from above, its hind tibial flanges almost reach the tip of the tibia, and its distribution is limited to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
Internet References
live adult image (Mark Cassino, Michigan)
live adult image (Phil Myers, U. of Michigan)
live adult image (B. Newton, U. of Kentucky)
live adult image (Susan Ellis, Maryland)
live adult image (Emily Earp, Florida)
