A British scientist has discovered a new species of leafhopper in the rainforest of western Uganda, belonging to a genus so rare that its closest known relative was last seen in 1969. The insect, named Phlogis kibalensis, was found by Dr Alvin Helden of Anglia Ruskin University during field work in Kibale National Park.
The species has a metallic sheen and pitted body surface, resembling other leafhoppers, particularly in its male reproductive organs, which are partly leaf-shaped. Leafhoppers are related to cicadas but are much smaller, feeding on plant sap and serving as prey for spiders, beetles, parasitic wasps, and birds.
Dr Helden, who published the findings in the journal Zootaxa, described the discovery as a personal milestone. “It’s the first time I’ve ever discovered a newly described species. Personally, it’s one of those things you aspire to do as an entomologist and I’ve managed to do it now,” he said.
Helden noted that leafhoppers of the Phlogis genus are extremely rare, with their biology remaining almost completely unknown. “We know almost nothing about Phlogis kibalensis, including what plants it feeds on or its role in the local ecosystem,” he added.
Since 2015, Helden has led student field trips to Kibale National Park, documenting insects and creating field guides with photos of butterflies, hawkmoths, and tortoise beetles. “There are so many species in the rainforest, but there aren’t enough pictures. The guides are helpful for people who want to put a name to things,” he said.
