brochosomes:diversity

2. Structure and diversity of brochosomes

The leafhopper family (Cicadellidae) includes ca. 25,000 described species, and perhaps more await description. The current knowledge of brochosomes is based on only a fraction of this diversity that has been studied thus far under an electron microscope. Brochosomes have been found in nearly all studied species, leaving no doubts that they are produced in the majority of leafhoppers. The size, shape, fine details of the surface, and internal structure of brochosomes all vary dramatically. Brochosomes produced by different species can look identical or very different. Moreover, in certain species, different morphological types of brochosomes are produced simultaneously or at different stages of development.
2.1. Functional types of brochosomes
Integumental brochosomes Egg brochosomes

Examples

Use Distributed across the integument. Placed onto egg nests made in plant tissues or directly onto eggs.

Distribution All leafhoppers. Worldwide. A small group of about 200 related species from the tribe Proconiini. New World.

Produced by Males and females, often also nymphs Gravid females only

Function Protection from excrement and water? Protection of eggs?

Size 0.2--5.0 µm 1.0--20.0 µm

Shape Spherical Elongate, rarely spherical

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	Integumental brochosomes	Egg brochosomes
Examples
Use	Distributed across the integument.	Placed onto egg nests made in plant tissues or directly onto eggs.
Distribution	All leafhoppers. Worldwide.	A small group of about 200 related species from the tribe Proconiini. New World.
Produced by	Males and females, often also nymphs	Gravid females only
Function	Protection from excrement and water?	Protection of eggs?
Size	0.2--5.0 µm	1.0--20.0 µm
Shape	Spherical	Elongate, rarely spherical