Posted by on 13/06/2017

Cuckoo spit

Ever wondered what that stuff is that looks like bits of spittle on vegetation at this time of year? Often called cuckoo spit it is in fact caused by the tiny larvae of the froghopper, known as the spittle bug.

Inside here is a larvae of the froghopper, overwise known as the spittlebug. The larvae is a tiny green bug that pierces the stem of the plant and sucks the sap, secreting lots of bubbles from its anus to wrap itself in a protective bubbly blob. This helps to hide it away from predators, regulate temperature and keep it moist.

Adult froghoppers come in a variety of colours and patterns. Their wings are held over their bodies in a tent like shape and to escape predators in a hurry they can jump up to 70cm high!

 

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