Treehopper and nymphs. Female Alchisme sp. treehopper looking after her larvae on a plant stem. Treehoppers (family Membracidae) are insects whose bodies often take on bizarre forms thought to aid in camouflage. There are over 3,000 known species in over 600 genera, found on all continents except Antarctica. When a nymph feels threatened, it creates vibrations that are communicated within the group. Together, they tap the stem to alert the mother, who comes to defend them. Photographed in South America.