Several species of leafhoppers may occur on cotton. Only these two species cause economic damage. Outbreaks of the southern garden leafhopper are most common near sugarbeet fields in the Imperial Valley.
Adults fly or jump when disturbed.
Nymphs and adults readily run backwards, sideways, or forwards. The midrib veins become roughened. Severe infestation may cause plants to shed squares and small bolls. Larger bolls may turn soft and spongy, and fail to mature. Other species cause leaf stippling.