grape leafhopper

The grape leafhopper, belonging to the genus Erythroneura, is a small, yellowish insect with red or brown bands. These leafhoppers are known to suck the juices from grapevine leaves, which can cause them to wither and fall off.1

Leafhoppers, in general, are a large family of sap-sucking insects found on many types of plants. While a single leafhopper may not cause significant damage, large populations can be serious economic pests. They possess piercing-sucking mouthparts and excrete a sweet substance called honeydew. Leafhoppers undergo gradual growth through several nymphal stages before reaching adulthood. Some species overwinter as eggs, while others hibernate as adults.2

These insects can cause various types of plant injury by interfering with normal plant physiology. They can destroy chlorophyll, leading to yellow spots or browning of leaves, a condition sometimes referred to as "hopper burn." Additionally, leafhoppers can transmit plant diseases. For instance, grape leafhoppers can reduce the size, color, flavor, and sugar content of grapes. Control measures for leafhoppers include spraying or dusting.2