Two-spotted spittlebug

The two-spotted spittlebug (Clastoptera biguttata) is an insect from the Cercopidae family, widely known for producing characteristic frothy masses on host plants. Adults have a stout body, typically measuring 4–6 mm, with a distinct pattern on their forewings.

A defining characteristic of this species is the presence of two prominent light or dark spots on the forewings. The body coloration ranges from brownish-brown to almost black, allowing the insect to camouflage effectively on bark and leaves.

The larval stages develop inside protective foam masses created from their own excrement and fluid. These "spittle nests" protect the soft-bodied nymphs from desiccation and predator attacks.

The head of these pests is relatively large, featuring well-developed compound eyes. The mouthparts are adapted as a stylet for piercing plant tissues and feeding on cellular sap.

Adults are excellent jumpers, which makes mechanical capture difficult. In the field, they are often confused with other spittlebug species, but the specific spots on their wings allow for accurate identification with a magnifying glass.

The primary damage is caused by both adults and nymphs that feed on the sap of various plants. Preferred hosts include ornamental shrubs, forest trees, and certain agricultural crops.

Damage is frequently reported on conifers, including pine, as well as deciduous trees. In gardens, they can parasitize ornamental flowers and berries, disrupting the normal metabolism of plant tissues.

During feeding, the pests inject saliva containing enzymes that can cause deformation of young shoots. This leads to stunted plant growth and a loss of ornamental value.

When the population density is high, many foam masses appear on the plant. This not only spoils the appearance of the crop but also creates a moist environment conducive to secondary fungal diseases.

Severe infestations lead to premature yellowing and leaf drop. Weakened plants become less winter-hardy and are more susceptible to other pests or pathogens.

The life cycle begins in spring after the overwintering eggs, laid in bark crevices or buds, hatch. Young nymphs appear in May when stable positive temperatures are established.

The peak activity period for larvae occurs in late spring and early summer. During this time, you can observe massive amounts of frothy secretions on shoot tips and leaf axils.

Adult spittlebugs emerge in mid-summer, usually in July. They lead a more concealed life compared to nymphs and actively move around the entire plant searching for the most succulent parts for feeding.

Typically, one or two generations develop per season, depending on the climatic conditions of the region. A warm and humid summer promotes more intensive pest reproduction.

By autumn, adults lay eggs for overwintering, selecting protected spots on plant stems. After the egg-laying cycle is completed, the adults die.

The main sign of the pest's presence is "spittle"—white frothy secretions covering the nymphs on stems and branches. These spots are highly visible in the morning hours before they dry out.

Deformation of shoot tips and leaf curling are secondary signs of nymph feeding. If you notice that shoots have stopped growing or have become twisted, you should inspect them carefully for foam masses.

Sticky residue (honeydew) on leaves located below the spittlebug cluster also indicates their activity. This residue attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold.

The presence of adults themselves, which perform sudden jumps when approached by humans. They can be found by inspecting the undersides of leaves during a sunny afternoon.

Gradual drying of individual branches in the long-term absence of control measures is a critical sign of a heavy pest infestation.

Mechanical removal of foam masses containing larvae is an effective method for small areas. They can simply be washed off with a hose stream, which leads to the death of the unprotected nymphs.

The use of systemic insecticides is recommended during the periods of mass nymph emergence. Products based on acetamiprid or thiamethoxam show high efficacy against sucking pests.

The use of biological agents, such as formulations based on entomopathogenic fungi, helps reduce the population density without the use of harsh chemicals.

Agrotechnical measures aimed at maintaining plant health reduce their attractiveness to spittlebugs. Regular pruning and proper irrigation are keys to high crop resilience.

• Implementation of crop rotation and removal of weed reservoirs.
• Attracting natural entomophages, such as ladybugs and lacewings.
• Regular monitoring of plant conditions during the spring season.