Spittlebug (Nymph of a froghopper)

Description:

Nymph of a froghopper commonly known as "Spittlebugs" : and their froth as cuckoo spit, frog spit or snake spit. 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.