Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Dietrich (2005) raises the traditional subfamilies Aphrophorinae and Clastopterinae to families (each containing a single genus)
Explanation of Names
Spittlebug: nymphs surround themselves with a frothy mass that resembles spittle
Numbers
either 67 spp. in 9 genera in our area or only 15 spp. in 7 genera, when Aphrophorinae and Clastopterinae are treated as separately
Identification
one or two stout spines on the hind tibiae, and a circlet of spines at the apex
Remarks
After the nymph molts for the final time, the resulting adult insect leaves the mass of "spittle" and moves about actively.
The "spittle" is derived from a fluid voided from the anus and from a mucilaginous substance excreted by epidermal glands.
Spittlebug nymphs wander away from their spittle masses, and either start new ones, or enter those of other nymphs. Aphrophora nymphs hold the record, of one spittle mass over a foot long containing about 100 individuals! (Comment by Andy Hamilton).
See Also
Leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) have one or two rows of spines on the hind tibiae, lacking in Spittlebugs
