Typical Spittlebugs
Aphrophoridae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
- Infraorder: Cicadomorpha
- Superfamily: Cercopoidea
- Family: Aphrophoridae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aphrophoridae: //ˌæf.roʊˈfɔː.rɪˌdeɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Aphrophoridae, commonly known as spittlebugs, are a diverse family of sap-sucking insects found in various habitats worldwide. They are known for their unique spittle mass, which serves as a protective covering for nymphs.
Physical Characteristics
Aphrophoridae, or spittlebugs, are characterized by their ability to produce frothy masses known as 'spittle' during their nymph stage. Adults can be identified by their distinctive body shape and size, which varies across species.
Identification Tips
Look for the white, frothy spittle masses typically found on host plants, indicating the presence of nymphs. Adult spittlebugs are usually found on vegetation and can vary in color.
Habitat
Aphrophoridae are commonly found in a variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and gardens, where they reside on herbaceous and woody plants.
Distribution
Worldwide, with a significant presence in Europe and North America, including regions such as Ontario (ON) and Wisconsin (WI).
Diet
They primarily feed on the sap of plants, extracting nutrients through their piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Aphrophoridae includes an egg stage, multiple nymphal stages (instars), and an adult stage. Nymphs are often found within spittle masses until they mature into adults.
Ecosystem Role
Aphrophoridae play a role in their ecosystems as herbivores, impacting plant growth and serving as prey for various predators.
Collecting Methods
- Net sweeping
- Hand collection from host plants
- Trapping methods
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinned specimens
- Drying in a desiccator
Evolution
Aphrophoridae are thought to have evolved adaptations for sap-feeding and spittle production, which may provide protection from predators and environmental factors.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Spittlebugs are often confused with other insects that produce frothy masses, leading to misconceptions about their biology and ecological role.
Tags
- Hemiptera
- Spittlebugs
- Aphrophoridae
- Insects