Cladonota

Cladonota is a genus of neotropical treehoppers (family Membracidae) widespread from Mexico to South America. They are known for their elaborate pronotum shapes, hypothesized to play a role in camouflage or mate recognition, although their function is not yet known with certainty. Previously described as a subgenus of Sphongophorus, it was recognized as a genus of its own right in 1997 after the latter was synonymized with Hypsauchenia.

== Description == The genus is distinguished from other treehoppers by its highly elaborate pronotum, which in many species bears an elongated, curved anterior process or an ornate intermediate process, giving them an appearance variously called "grotesque" and "particularly charismatic". Resembling various natural elements from twigs, leaves and seeds to bird droppings, the pronotum is believed to help them camouflage in their natural habitat. Other explanations for the pronotum's structure include mate recognition, as well as providing an extended surface area for their sensory setae. While a popular hypothesis, the use of the pronotum for camouflage has not yet been empirically tested as of 2020. Despite their seemingly burdensome pronota, Cladonota treehoppers are capable of both jumping and flying.