Photo and Commentary ©2024 by Robert Howson
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
We frequently overlook that which is right in front of our eyes, not because it isn’t interesting or even beautiful, but because we are preoccupied with things we imagine being more important.
Although this species was first described six years before the American Revolution started, it had evaded my notice until relatively recently. How could I have entirely missed seeing that sparkling sphere on that deep green leaf or the red/green insect that produced it? The insect is a Candy-striped Leafhopper; and the sphere, liquid shot from the rear end of the leafhopper to rid itself of excess fluid. These insects must take in large amounts of fluids, primarily from the xylem of woody plants, in order to obtain sufficient nutrients. Excretion of these fluids may even be accompanied with a popping sound. This fluid may retain a sweet quality which in turn may attract other insects like wasps and flies.
Just because something is interesting or beautiful does not mean it does not have negative consequences. This insect can often be found on blackberry bushes, which might be fine with you, but it also dines on roses, rhododendron, and other ornamental plants you might not want harmed. An infestation by this species may damage them beyond recovery. Even worse, they serve as a vector in transmitting Pierce’s disease which can destroy trees like elm and oak. Once infected, there is no known treatment for this disease.
We listen to the daily litany of the woes of the earth on the evening news and are tempted to think only man is affected by the blight of sin, but consequences go far beyond us and our bad decisions. It extends into all of nature as well. “The whole creation is on tiptoe to see the wonderful sight of the sons of God coming into their own. The world of creation cannot as yet see reality, not because it chooses to be blind, but because in God’s purpose it has been so limited—yet it has been given hope. And the hope is that in the end the whole of created life will be rescued from the tyranny of change and decay, and have its share in that magnificent liberty which can only belong to the children of God!” (Romans 8:20-22 J.B. Phillips New Testament)