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Froghopper or Spittle Bugs or Spit Bugs

Philagra parva

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.

1 Species ID Suggestions

Froghopper or Spittle Bugs or Spit Bugs
Froghopper


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8 Comments

Christiane
Christiane 12 years ago

Why wouldn't you be happy to find this in your garden?? It has not done any damage to the plant yet..

Arpicheck
Arpicheck 12 years ago

I wouldn't be happy to find this in my garden....

SarahWhitt
SarahWhitt 12 years ago

You're welcome! :)

Christiane
Christiane 12 years ago

Thanks ceherzog..

ceherzog
ceherzog 12 years ago

I've tried to take a few pics of this and have not come near to the great shot you got. Good picture.

Christiane
Christiane 12 years ago

Unbelievable... I learn something new very day.. Thanks for this information!

SarahWhitt
SarahWhitt 12 years ago

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.

natashagr33n
natashagr33n 12 years ago

Maybe some type of spit bug?

Christiane
Spotted by
Christiane

4671, Queensland, Australia

Spotted on May 16, 2011
Submitted on May 16, 2011

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