
Ricaniid planthoppers
Scientific name: Ricaniidae
Ricaniid planthoppers
Scientific name: Ricaniidae

Description

Contrary to what one might think, Ricaniidae are not simply jumping pests but play a pivotal role in the ecosystem by serving as pollinators while feeding on plant sap. An interesting fact about Ricaniidae is their unique communication system; they produce sounds by vibrating their bodies against substrates—a process known as substrate-borne vibrational communication. This capability allows them to send messages across long plant stems, a critical adaptation for survival in their crowded vegetative environments.

Scientific Classification
