Eratoneura

Young, 1952

Species Guides

Eratoneura is a of leafhoppers in the Cicadellidae, first described by Young in 1952. The genus contains at least 190 described , placing it among the more species-rich genera within the Typhlocybinae. Members of this genus, like other leafhoppers, produce brochosomes—nanoparticles that coat their bodies for waterproofing and anti-reflective protection. Eratoneura fulleri has been specifically documented depositing brochosome clusters on wing edges for redistribution or repair of its protective coating.

Eratoneura carmini by (c) Joshua Ebright, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Joshua Ebright. Used under a CC-BY license.

Eratoneura affinis by (c) Victor Engel, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Victor Engel. Used under a CC-BY license.

Eratoneura affinis by (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sam Kieschnick. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eratoneura: /ˌɛrətəˈnʊərə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Distribution

Documented distribution records include Vermont and other parts of the United States.

Behavior

Eratoneura fulleri has been observed depositing large clusters of brochosomes on the outer edge of its wings, which it then distributes to other parts of its body or uses to repair depleted or damaged brochosome coatings.

More Details

Brochosomes

Members of Eratoneura produce brochosomes, which are protein-lipid nanoparticles formed in the and applied to the body using comb-like spines on the hind legs. These particles create a superhydrophobic, anti-reflective coating. In E. fulleri, brochosomes can accumulate in dense sheets on wing edges.