Fauna
Insect

Torpedo Bug

Siphanta acuta

Also known as Green Planthopper, Torpedo Planthopper

Torpedo bugs mimic tiny, pointed green leaves to blend seamlessly into foliage while piercing tender stems to feed on sap. When startled, adults use spring-loaded hind legs to catapult violently into the air like a fired projectile, accompanied by an audible snap. Flightless nymphs coat themselves in spectacular plumes of white waxy filaments that thwart predators and shed raindrops.

CamouflagedHerbivoreIntroduced
Torpedo Bug reference1 / 7
(c) Steve Kerr, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Steve Kerr · cc-by
—observations
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyPlant sap (phloem fluid)
Predators
  • Jumping spiders
  • Insectivorous birds
  • Praying mantises
ThreatsPesticide applications and introduced egg parasitoids
HabitatsEucalypt woodlands, gardens, orchards, subtropical scrub
Life span2–6 months
Classification
  1. OrderHemiptera
  2. FamilyFlatidae
  3. GenusSiphanta
  4. SpeciesSiphanta acuta
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Location: Search the undersides of woody shrub leaves, citrus stems, and eucalyptus foliage.
  • Approach: Move in slowly without casting a shadow, as quick movements trigger an instant leap.
Related species
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