Passionvine Hopper (Scolypopa Australis)
The Passionvine Hoppers (Scolypopa Australis) are sap sucking insects and both their nymphal stages as well as the adults (shown) can create quite a mess with their secretions. They are a major pest for both passionfruit and kiwifruit, as the black fungus growing on the sugary ‘honeydew’ makes the fruit unmarketable. They are also unpopular in our garden. Length about 7-8 millimetres. While the name might suggest that these critters are selective in their choice of host plant, they will in fact invade any plants with a good supply of sap.
This is an image of a hopper sitting on our window, taken with flash, producing a black background. I am showing a negative.
For more black and white images check out Dragonstar’s Weekend in Black and White.
January 30, 2011 at 8:38 am
Sharp and close up image.Interesting method to photograph and display it!
Barb
January 30, 2011 at 9:59 am
Great idea. It’s a fine, clear picture, with plenty of detail.
Funny, it looks too attractive to be as destructive as it is.
January 30, 2011 at 10:52 am
I saw a moth the other night and thought I should try my hand a photographing some … this one is lovely … interesting photographic approach.
January 31, 2011 at 3:47 am
wow… It just look as if it was frozen… Great shot !