Alder Spittlebug vs Black Headed Birch Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alder Spittlebug | Black Headed Birch Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aphrophora alni | Craesus alniastri |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Aphrophoridae | Tenthredinidae |
| Size | 8-10 mm | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Alder Spittlebug
A common European spittlebug found on willows and alders. Nymphs produce copious frothy spittle masses and adults can jump impressive distances.
Did You Know?
The frothy spittle mass protects the nymph from temperature extremes, predators, and parasitoids while also preventing desiccation.
Black Headed Birch Sawfly
A medium-sized sawfly with a dark head and orange body. Larvae are greenish-blue with black heads and feed communally on birch and alder leaves.
Did You Know?
When a predator approaches, the entire colony of larvae simultaneously rears up and thrashes, making the group appear larger and more threatening.