Considerable variation in body form exists among this group. In many cases, the wings are generally held rooflike over the body.
Some members are beneficial - they serve as a source of shellac, dyes, and other materials.
The following information provides a general overview of some of the homopterans that you may encounter. Although there may be many different species within each group, I have selected only one or two to discuss as a general representative of each group. These insects are easily recognized by their characteristic body shape and size - the cicada is the largest Homoptera in the United States. Male cicadas produce sounds, sometimes these sounds are extremely loud. These sounds are used for mating and as a warning signal when disturbed.