Palm-feeding
Guides
Hemisphaerota
Hemisphaerota is a genus of tortoise beetles in the subfamily Cassidinae, containing approximately 10 described species distributed across the circum-Caribbean region. The genus is characterized by hemispherical body shape and specialized tarsal structures for adhesion to host plant surfaces. The best-studied species, H. cyanea (palmetto tortoise beetle), exhibits remarkable defensive adaptations including adhesive tarsal pads that secrete oil when threatened, and larvae that construct protective fecal thatches.
Sikaianini
Sikaianini is a tribe of small, delicate planthoppers in the family Derbidae, comprising 6 genera and 34 species as of 2025. Members are among the smallest derbids, with body lengths of 1.5–2.5 mm and forewings 4–6 mm. The tribe is characterized by eyes that extend forward to reach or nearly reach the clypeus, unusual forewing venation with fused subcosta and radius veins, and short hind wings less than half the length of the forewings. Adults have been observed feeding on palm trees, though nymphal biology remains unknown.