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Froghopper or Spittle Bugs or Spit Bugs

Philagra parva

Photo by Christiane
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

Their nymphs produce 'spittle' clinging to the stems of shrubs or small trees to reduce the risk of dehydration or to deter parasites. Those spittle is sometimes known as cuckoo-spit.

Reference Links:

Froghopper, Spittlebug - Philagra parva, Aphrophoridae

Species ID Suggestions

Froghopper or Spittle Bugs or Spit Bugs

Reference Link
SarahWhitt
2

Comments (8)
Christiane
Why wouldn't you be happy to find this in your garden?? It has not done any damage to the plant yet..
Arpicheck
I wouldn't be happy to find this in my garden....
ceherzog
I've tried to take a few pics of this and have not come near to the great shot you got. Good picture.
Christiane
Unbelievable... I learn something new very day.. Thanks for this information!
SarahWhitt
Interesting...I always heard it was "bug spit". Guess that was correct. Wiki states the following: The froth serves a number of purposes. It hides the nymph from the view of predators and parasites, it insulates against heat and cold, thus providing thermal control and also moisture control. Without the froth the bug would quickly dry up. The nymphs pierce plants and suck sap causing damage, and much of the excess filtered fluids go into the production of the froth, which has an acrid taste, deterring predators. A few species are serious agricultural pests.
Photographed
PublishedMay 16, 2011

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