Reptalus quinquecostatus

Alternative names
Oliarus panzeri
Description

This genus is readily separated from other Cixiids by the five keels on the scutellum (three in Cixius/Tachycixius). The vertex is much broader than it is long. Genital examination is required to distinguish between this and other species in the genus. 

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Habitat

Adults are polyphagous and feed on grassy and sometimes on woody  plants. This species is  associated with ground that dries out and cracks open during the summer months.  Adult females lay their eggs directly in the soil near the base of host plants. The five underground nymphal stages live in soil crevices feeding on the roots. Adults emerge in the summer to feed on leaves and green shoots across a wide variety of hosts.

When to see it

Spring-Autumn.

UK Status

Maninly found in the south and east. 

Leicestershire & Rutland Status

Uncommon. 

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
insect - true bug (Hemiptera)
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Hemiptera
Family:
Cixiidae
Records on NatureSpot:
1
First record:
29/06/2026 (Cann, Alan)
Last record:
29/06/2026 (Cann, Alan)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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