The insects commonly referred to as "green bugs that spit" are spittlebugs, particularly during their nymph stage. While the color of spittlebugs can vary depending on the species and life stage, many nymphs exhibit a green or yellowish-green hue, providing excellent camouflage within plant foliage.
Understanding Spittlebugs: The Master Spitters of the Garden
Spittlebugs are small insects belonging to the family Cercopidae (also known as froghoppers in their adult form). Their most distinctive characteristic, and the reason for their common name, is the frothy, bubbly mass they produce on plant stems and leaves, which closely resembles a glob of spit.
The Frothy "Spit"
The "spit" is not actually saliva but a protective substance created by the spittlebug nymphs. These young insects produce this foam by expelling excess plant sap from their anuses, mixing it with a sticky fluid, and then whipping it into a froth using a specialized appendage. This foamy mass serves several crucial purposes for the developing nymph:
- Protection from Predators: The foam acts as a physical barrier, deterring birds, predatory insects, and other creatures that might otherwise feed on the vulnerable nymph.
- Moisture Retention: It prevents the soft-bodied nymph from drying out, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Temperature Regulation: The foam helps insulate the nymph, keeping it cool in the sun and warm during cooler periods.
Host Plants and Feeding Habits
Spittlebug nymphs are plant feeders. They insert their needle-like mouthparts into the stems of plants and suck out the plant's sap. While generally not considered a severe pest for established plants, heavy infestations can sometimes lead to stunted growth or minor distortion of plant tissues.
According to the University of Minnesota Extension, spittlebugs feed on a wide variety of plants commonly found in home gardens, including:
- Ornamental Grasses
- Roses
- Chrysanthemums
- Clover
- Strawberries
- Herbs
- Many other garden plants
For more detailed information on spittlebugs in home gardens, you can refer to resources from reputable agricultural extensions such as the University of Minnesota Extension.
Spittlebug Life Cycle Overview
| Stage | Characteristics | Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Egg | Laid on plant stems or leaves, typically in late summer/fall. | Overwinter on host plants. |
| Nymph | Small, soft-bodied, often green or yellowish-green; produces "spit." | Feeds on plant sap, creates frothy mass for protection; molts several times. |
| Adult | Resembles a small, often brown or grayish-brown frog; sometimes winged. | No longer produces foam; continue to feed on sap; can jump quickly. |
The visible "spit" is almost exclusively produced by the nymph stage, which is why they are the primary answer to identifying "bugs that spit."
