The Spittle Bug is best known for its nymph stage which produces a cover of frothed-up plant sap resembling spit. The spit covering serves several purposes: it hides the nymph from the view of predators and parasites, it insulates against heat and cold, and it protects the bug from moisture loss. Without the froth the bug would quickly dry up and die. The nymphs pierce plants and suck sap, causing damage to the plant. Much of the excess filtered fluids go into the production of the froth.
Spittle bug damage is rare in a well-kept lawn, but they can sometimes damage Bermuda, Centipede, zoysia, and St. Augustine grasses. If you notice brown areas, give us a call!
Science Note:
Adult Spittlebugs or "Froghoppers" jump from plant to plant; some species can jump up to 70 cm vertically: a more impressive performance relative to body weight than fleas. When the bug needs to leap, the legs form part of a very powerful catapult system. The limbs are lifted in a cocked position, held by ridges on the legs. Two huge muscles, one controlling each leg, are contracted, and when they build up sufficient force, the legs break the lock and the insect springs forward. The legs snap open and all the force is applied at once. It accelerates in a millisecond up to a take-off velocity of four meters per second. Scientists calculate the initial acceleration to be 4,000 meters per second. This produces more than 400 G’s.
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Armyworms
Chinch Bugs
Grubs
Leafhoppers
VW Bugs