Which hind-leg feature is characteristic of Cercopidae (froghoppers)?

Which hind-leg feature is characteristic of Cercopidae (froghoppers)?

• A. Short bristle-like antennae
• B. Large pronotum extending over abdomen
• C. One or two stout spines on hind tibiae and a circlet of spines at the apex
• D. Comb-like rows of large spines along the hind tibia

Answer: (C)

Froghoppers rely on their hind legs for powerful jumping, so their hind tibiae carry distinctive spines that aid propulsion and grip. The hallmark is one or two stout spines on the hind tibiae accompanied by a circlet of spines at the tip of the tibia. This arrangement helps the leg grab the plant surface and stabilize during the explosive takeoff and landing, making it a clear diagnostic feature of Cercopidae. In other groups, you’d typically see different adaptations—for example, rows of large spines along the hind tibia found in some related planthoppers, or other body features that aren’t tied to the jumping mechanism.

Froghoppers rely on their hind legs for powerful jumping, so their hind tibiae carry distinctive spines that aid propulsion and grip. The hallmark is one or two stout spines on the hind tibiae accompanied by a circlet of spines at the tip of the tibia. This arrangement helps the leg grab the plant surface and stabilize during the explosive takeoff and landing, making it a clear diagnostic feature of Cercopidae. In other groups, you’d typically see different adaptations—for example, rows of large spines along the hind tibia found in some related planthoppers, or other body features that aren’t tied to the jumping mechanism.