Contrary to its dangerous appearance, the Brazilian Treehopper is just a completely ordinary small insect.
This is an insect primarily found in tropical forests.
The Brazilian Treehopper is a relatively common insect, mainly inhabiting tropical forests, and is perhaps one of the most bizarre-looking creatures on the planet.
They are about the size of a pea, primarily feeding on leaves at the tops of trees. However, what gives us the “creeps” when witnessing them is the strange object atop its head.
It resembles a “hat”, formed by four chitinous spheres covered with numerous hair-like structures, making this tiny insect look like something out of a science fiction or horror movie.
Strange with its “alien” appearance, the Brazilian Treehopper.
Even today, scientists still cannot explain what these spheres actually do for the Brazilian Treehopper, or if they simply contribute to making it look frightening.
Some hypotheses suggest that the spherical structure protects the Brazilian Treehopper by acting as “dummy heads” to distract attacking predators.
While others are convinced that this species has evolved to resemble a parasitic fungus known as Ophiocordyceps unilateralis.
This parasitic fungus is known for its terrifying ability to take over the mind and body of the wood-cutting ant, Camponotus rufipes, turning them into “zombies,” after which they die and become a medium for the fungus to continue its growth.
The Brazilian variant is the only one with the strange “hat.”
Currently, science recognizes over 3,000 species of treehoppers, which can be found on every continent except Antarctica. However, the Brazilian variant is the only one with the strange “hat,” making it look like an extraterrestrial being.
Yet, despite its fearsome appearance, the Brazilian Treehopper is just a completely ordinary insect, spending its days searching for food and reproducing.
