Story perspectives

Seven New Leafhopper Species Discovered in Uganda Park

11/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Alvin Helden of Anglia Ruskin University identified seven new leafhopper species in Kibale National Park, Uganda—the first Batracomorphus discovery in Africa since 1981.
The seven species are frog-like, green, with distinctive reproductive structures, collected by light traps above 1,500 meters.
Researchers distinguished them through detailed examination of male genitalia due to their similar appearances.
One species, Batracomorphus ruthae, honors Dr. Helden's late mother.

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Story summary

Dr. Alvin Helden of Anglia Ruskin University identified seven new leafhopper species in Kibale National Park, Uganda—the first Batracomorphus discovery in Africa since 1981.
The seven species are frog-like, green, with distinctive reproductive structures, collected by light traps above 1,500 meters.
Researchers distinguished them through detailed examination of male genitalia due to their similar appearances.
One species, Batracomorphus ruthae, honors Dr. Helden's late mother.