Entomology
Potato leafhoppers are small, wedge-shaped insects measuring about 3mm in length. These agile pests are light green in color and are known for their distinctive sideways movement. Their most distinctive features include:
- Wedge-shaped body (broader at head, tapering to rear)
- Translucent, light green coloration
- Clear wings held roof-like over body
- Piercing-sucking mouthparts
- Short antennae
- Compound eyes
Reproduction Cycle
Migrating south to the coast state the potato leafhoppers life cycle is::
- Eggs: The mother will lay the eggs inside the plant stem, eggs will hatch in about 7 to 10 days
- Nymphs: Going through 5 instar stages itt will molt 5 times in this period lasting about2 to 3 weeks
- Adult: Adults will only live for about 3 weeks
Social Aspects
Not a higly social insect it spends most of its life migrating throughout the seaons. Its social behaviors include:
- During abnormal temperatures the will migrate towards an ideal climate
- During mating the will send vibrations out to locate a mate
- Males will eavesdrop on other males to find mates
- Communal feeding patterns often attacking weaker plants
Treatment Options
- Introduce natural predators (ladybugs, lacewings)
- Apply insecticidal soap
- Use neem oil
- Prune heavily infested areas
