Cercopidae

Definition

A family of true bugs (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha) within the superfamily Cercopoidea, commonly known as froghoppers. Members are xylem-feeding insects with enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping; nymphs produce protective frothy masses ('cuckoo spit') from anal secretions. The family was traditionally cosmopolitan, but a 2023 phylogenetic study elevated the New World subfamily Ischnorhininae to family rank (Ischnorhinidae), restricting Cercopidae sensu stricto to the Old World subfamily Cercopinae.

Etymology

From the type genus Cercopis (Greek kerkos 'tail' + ops 'face' or 'appearance') + family suffix -idae.

Example

The meadow froghopper Philaenus spumarius (Cercopidae) is a known vector of the plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa and produces conspicuous white spittle masses on host plants.

Synonyms

• froghoppers (common name)

Related Terms

• Cercopoidea
• Auchenorrhyncha
• Ischnorhinidae
• xylem-feeding
• spittlebug
• Philaenus spumarius
• Cercopis

Usage Notes

The circumscription of Cercopidae changed in 2023; older literature may use the name for a broader group including New World taxa now placed in Ischnorhinidae. Distinguish from 'spittlebug' (vernacular for Cercopoidea generally) and 'froghopper' (vernacular for Cercopidae/Ischnorhinidae combined). Nymphs are often called 'spittlebugs' for their froth-producing behavior, whereas adults are more frequently called 'froghoppers' for their jumping ability.