dead Sharpshooter leafhopper -- Cicadellidae family - with fungus spores
found dead, but clinging to a cattail leaf instream on the Jock River.
The wings were open, and it looked frozen in place. Fungus spores ooze
from between abdominal segments.
Thanks for pointing out the fungus spores, Eric. And yes, it did look creepy. I had noticed the spore-like particles on the insect, but had thought that they might have formed after death, but then, now that you've mentioned it, I recall that there are a number of fungal infections that kill insects. Thanks, bev
Guest
17-Aug-2004 20:53
Very interesting! The family is Cicadellidae, and it was killed by a fungus. Look at the spores oozing out between its abdominal segments. Creepy:-)
