What Is It?
Bocydium globulare is one of nature’s strangest-looking insects. And that’s saying something! This bizarre little bug belongs to the Membracidae family (treehoppers) and is native to tropical South America. While most treehoppers have some sort of weird helmet-type projection, this species takes the cake: a glossy, chocolate-brown body with multiple globular antenna-like orbs sprouting from its thorax.
It’s like someone designed it for a Valentine’s Day masquerade ball… and then gave up halfway.
Why It’s So Weird (and Weirdly Romantic?)
*The orbs aren’t eyes or antennae & no one’s 100% sure what they do. They might be for camouflage. They might be for mimicry, but we like to think they’re just showing off.
*They live on plants and sip sap, but in a very “romantic dinner date” kind of way. Slow, quiet, and low impact.
*They’re loyal. Mothers have been observed guarding their eggs, which is rare for insects.
*Their form is flamboyant, and they make no apologies for it. Self-love is still love.
Where to Spot Them
*Tropical forests of Brazil and other parts of South America
*Occasionally in scientific illustrations and “Top 10 Weirdest Bugs” lists, where they certainly belong
*Rarely seen in the wild, but becoming increasingly famous online for their alien looks
Why They’re Cool
*They’re a perfect blend of alien and adorable
*They highlight how little we know about insect morphology and behavior
*Their helmet orbs may be part of an evolutionary arms race. Beauty AND brains
*They’ve become a symbol of entomological curiosity, inspiring artists, scientists, and bug-lovers alike