Kemeris

Kemeris is a genus of insects belonging to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadellidae, commonly known as leafhoppers. These small, jumping insects are characterized by their wedge-shaped bodies and their ability to feed on the sap of various plants. Kemeris species are found in several parts of the world, with a notable presence in tropical and subtropical regions. Their diet primarily consists of xylem sap, which they extract using their specialized piercing-sucking mouthparts. This feeding behavior can sometimes lead to the transmission of plant diseases, although their significance as agricultural pests varies greatly depending on the specific species and the crops present in their habitat.

The life cycle of Kemeris involves several nymphal instars before reaching the adult stage. Nymphs typically reside on the host plant, feeding and molting as they grow. Adults are winged and capable of flight, which aids in dispersal and finding new food sources. Their physical appearance is generally cryptic, allowing them to blend in with their plant surroundings, providing a degree of protection from predators. Research on Kemeris often focuses on their ecological roles, their impact on plant health, and their taxonomic classification within the diverse Cicadellidae family.