Leafhopper

Cuerna alpina

A leafhopper is the common name for any species from the family Cicadellidae. These small insects have piercing-sucking mouthparts and feed on sap from grass, shrubs, or trees. Their hind legs are modified for jumping, and are covered with hairs that facilitate the spreading of a secretion over their bodies that acts as a water repellent and carrier of pheromones.

Similar to their relationship with aphids, ants are attracted to the sweet substance secreted by leafhoppers. This causes them to congregate on plants where leafhoppers are present.

Look for leafhoppers on plant stems throughout the river valley!