Treehopper, Cyphonia trifida, Membracidae

Treehoppers are insects related to cicadas and leafhoppers. Most treehoppers have a highly modified pronotum on the back, in this case forming several hollow spines, which makes it unpalatable for potential predators and thereby gives it an advantage in the struggle for survival. Treehoppers feed on plant sap which is rich in sugar. In this video the sucking mouthparts of the treehopper have penetrated the vein of a leaf.

 

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Uploaded on November 12, 2018