I sure got a surprise when I looked down into an Agave plant while hiking at Dripping Springs, each stiff, spiky leaf had one of these bugs on it! They must have a very strong mouthpart to be able to pierce the tough outer layer of the leaves.
Pea Family Las Cruces, NM Oct. 5, 2008 I found this plant after the storm passed. Kenny was "resting his eyes" in the car (a.k.a. taking a nap!), so I took advantage of the time and wandered around looking for whatever the desert had to offer! This was a small plant, I nearly overlooked it.
Sotol leaves have sharp, curved hooks on the edges. No wonder cowboys wear leather chaps!