Aphrophoridae
Common Name
Overview
The family Aphrophoridae, commonly known as froghoppers or spittlebugs, consists of small, sap-sucking insects. They are known for the distinctive frothy spittle mass produced by nymphs for protection against predators and environmental conditions.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
- Superfamily: Cercopoidea
- Family: Aphrophoridae
Key Characteristics
- Body shape resembles that of a frog.
- Generally small, with most species being less than 12 mm in length.
- Coloration ranges from brown to green.
- Nymphs produce and reside within a frothy spittle mass.
- Adults have powerful hind legs for jumping.
Life Cycle
- Eggs: Laid on plant tissues.
- Nymphs: Develop in the protective frothy spittle mass, undergo multiple molts.
- Adults: Emerge from nymphs, capable of flight, mate, and lay eggs.
Behavior and Ecology
- Most species are herbivorous and feed on plant sap.
- Associated with a wide range of host plants.
- Nymphs produce spittle for camouflage and moisture retention.
- Adults are strong jumpers and can evade predators quickly.
Notable Species
- Philaenus spumarius: Known as the meadow spittlebug, it is widespread and can affect a variety of crops.
- Aphrophora alni: Commonly found in Europe and North America, known to impact alder trees.
- Neophilaenus lineatus: Traced primarily in grasslands and affecting grasses.
Conservation
Generally not considered endangered. However, habitat loss and overuse of pesticides can impact populations.
Significance to Humans
- Some species are agricultural pests and can transmit plant pathogens.
- Their presence may indicate a healthy, diverse ecosystem.
- Spittle produced can be unsightly but usually does not harm plants.
Fun Facts
- Nymphs create their spittle mass by mixing plant sap with secreted proteins and enzymes.
- Froghoppers can jump up to 70 times their body length.
- The spittle was historically thought to be made by cuckoos, hence the name 'cuckoo spit.'
- Adults use a catapult-like mechanism in their legs, which is one of the most efficient jump mechanisms in the animal kingdom.