Diaphorine

Diaphorine is a genus of insects in the order Hemiptera, commonly known as planthoppers. These small, plant-feeding insects are characterized by their ability to leap by rapidly extending their legs. Diaphorine species are found in various parts of the world, with a particular diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. They typically inhabit herbaceous plants and grasses, where they feed on the sap, often congregating in large numbers. Their life cycle involves incomplete metamorphosis, with nymphs resembling smaller, wingless versions of the adults.

The feeding habits of Diaphorine can sometimes lead to them being considered agricultural pests, as they can weaken plants and transmit diseases. However, many species also play a role in their ecosystems, serving as a food source for predators. Their taxonomy has been subject to revision, with species occasionally being reclassified into other genera or new species being described. Research on Diaphorine often focuses on their biology, ecology, and their interactions with host plants. Their distinctive jumping ability is a key characteristic studied by entomologists interested in insect locomotion.