About Spittlebugs, Froghoppers

Spittlebugs Aphrophoridae are usually visible as masses of froth (sometimes called cuckoo spit) clinging to the stems of shrubs or small trees. This froth is used by nymphs of many species either to reduce the risk of dehydration or to deter parasites. Adults are free living. The most common and widespread species in Australia are the brown Philagra parva, which has a narrow curved horn on the front of the head, and the beetle-like Bathylus albicinctus which feeds primarily on herbaceous plants.

Spittlebug larvae producing froth on a native vine Derris involuta. Photo: Robert Whyte

This photo shows part of an extensive colony of Froghoppers producing Cuckoo Spit. The ground underneath was drenched with the weeping moisture. This area where the spittle bugs were operating is very diverse, shady and healthy. Plants there include Rhodomyrtus psidioides, Cissus, Breynia, Backhousia, Eupomatia, Waterhousea, Hard Quandong, Rhodosphaera, Black Bean, Canthiums, Cockspur, Cryptocarya, Brown Myrtle, Guioa, Jagera, Alphitonia, Carissa, Mallotus, Banana Bush, Settlers Flax, Grey Gums, Tallowwood and Figs. Photo: Robert Whyte

Larva

This larva does not, on the face of it, look like either Philagra parva or Bathylus albicinctus. Its adult (or a stray adult nearby) did not have the horn nor the beetle like appearance, it was a simply shaped dark brown hopper. Unfortunately too quick for a photo. Photo: Robert Whyte