tereilla

Tereilla 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 ability to jump, hence their common name. Tereilla species are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. Their exact distribution can vary depending on the specific species.

Leafhoppers, including those in the Tereilla genus, are plant feeders. They possess piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to extract sap from plants. This feeding behavior can sometimes cause damage to crops and ornamental plants, making them of interest to agricultural entomologists. Different species of Tereilla may prefer specific host plants, though some can be generalists.

The life cycle of Tereilla, like other leafhoppers, involves incomplete metamorphosis. This means they hatch from eggs as nymphs, which resemble smaller versions of the adults and molt several times as they grow. After their final molt, they become winged adults. Their coloration can vary, often providing camouflage against their plant hosts. Research into the specific ecological roles and economic impact of Tereilla species is ongoing, with studies focusing on their host plant relationships, potential for disease transmission in plants, and their place within the broader insect biodiversity of their respective habitats.