Analysis of the Anointing and Grooming Behavior of Several Adult Insects in Typhlocybinae (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)

Anointing and grooming behaviors of the adult of Singapora shinshana (Matsumura) (Erythroneurini), Empoascanara (Empoascanara) mai Dworakowska (Erythroneurini), Austroasca vittata (Lethierry) (Empoascini), and Limassolla diospyri Chou et Ma (Zyginellini) were recorded and analysed. Through observation and analysis of their anointing and grooming, we found that there is a preparation stage before anointing behavior in typhlocybines. Anointing and grooming are repeated several times and the numbers and interval times differ from species to species among the Typhlocybinae. Ultramorphological examination of brochosomes and the morphology of the brochosome field, metathoracic tibiae and the structures on the head, face, mesothorax and pygofer of E. mai were done using a scanning electron microscope. Brochosomes (IBS) on the cuticle of typhlocybine adults were spherical visible above these integument. Characteristics of anointing and grooming behavior, the provide evidence that the brochosome field may function as a storage site in preparation for the next grooming session.