
Community identification
Broad-headed sharpshooter (likely)
Oncometopia sp.
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera; Cicadellidae
- Size
- About 6–10 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Vegetation, garden plants, shrubs, and nearby structures; common in warm regions.
Diet & Feeding
Adults and nymphs pierce plant tissues and suck xylem fluid, often feeding on stems and leaves.
Behavior Patterns
Usually rests motionless on plant surfaces and jumps or flies when disturbed. Nymphs are wingless and develop through several molts; adults may transmit plant pathogens.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to people and pets, but feeding can weaken plants and some species spread bacterial or viral diseases. They are also prey for spiders, birds, and predatory insects.