Explanation of Names
In
Words by William Whitaker "cornis" translates to "horn/beak/tusk/claw", and "crassi" translates to "thick" and "coarse".
Numbers
According to the University of Florida's Entomology Dept., three other Umbonia species exist in the United States.
Size
body length of adult approx. 10mm.
Identification
"The thorn bug is a variable species as to size, color and structure, particularly the pronotal horn of males. Typically, the adult is about 0.5 inch in length and is green or yellow with reddish lines and brownish markings."
Range
Southern Florida and southern Texas, south to South America.
Habitat
Ornamental and fruit trees.
Season
In Florida, they are found year round.
Food
Both young and adults feed on the same trees. Many times both are found together in clusters on branches.
Remarks
Doing a quick web-search, U. crassicornis has been the subject of several studies regarding insect parental care and in insect communication.
Print References
"Florida's Fabulous Insects", pages 74-75
(1)Internet References
University of Florida - a printable pdf version of the site's information.
Natural History Magazine - has a great article about how Thornbugs communicate
