skeptes

Skeptes is a genus of insects belonging to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadellidae, commonly known as leafhoppers. These small insects are characterized by their wedge-shaped bodies and their ability to leap considerable distances using their powerful hind legs. They are found in various habitats worldwide, with many species inhabiting grasslands, meadows, and agricultural fields.

Leafhoppers in the genus Skeptes, like other members of their family, feed on plant sap. They possess piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to extract nutrients from the vascular tissues of plants. This feeding behavior can sometimes cause damage to crops, leading to reduced yields or the transmission of plant diseases. The specific host plants vary among species of Skeptes, and some can be quite specialized in their dietary preferences.

The life cycle of Skeptes typically involves incomplete metamorphosis, with eggs laid on plant material. Nymphs hatch from the eggs and undergo several molts as they grow, gradually developing adult features. Adult Skeptes are winged and capable of flight, though they often rely on jumping as their primary mode of escape from predators. Their coloration can vary, often providing camouflage against their plant hosts. Research on Skeptes species focuses on their ecological roles, host plant relationships, and potential impacts on agriculture.