2. MATERIALS AND METHODS
In order to capture maximum species diversity of cicadellids;
grasslands, fields, orchards and forests of plains and hilly regions
with diverse topographical conditions and distinct climate were selected
from 4 agroclimatic zones of Himachal Pradesh (Table 1; Fig Ia) based on
different elevational belts. Quantitative as well as qualitative
collections (one tour/ survey area) of the cicadellid species were
conducted from July, 2017 to May, 2018 in 12 districts covering 25
locations during the seasons when the weather was clear (Table 2; Fig
Ib). In various surveys conducted in past years by many researchers
(Doran et al ., 2003; Ibisca, 2008; Bassler et al ., 2009;
Axmacher et al ., 2004; Fischer et al ., 2011; Chatelainet al ., 2020) different types of traps have been used for
collection, such as light traps, flight-interception traps and malaise
traps for invertebrates. Day collection of the leafhoppers were made by
sweeping vegetation with a heavy muslin sweep net (catch/10 sweeps) and
during night both vertical sheet and portable light trap methods with
250 Watt Mercury Vapour Bulb were installed. With the help of aspirator
(Plate 1) maximum number of different morphospecies were collected
(Plate 2a) and counted.