Citrus Mealybug vs Common Froghopper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Citrus Mealybug Common Froghopper
Scientific Name Planococcus citri Philaenus spumarius form typicus
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Pseudococcidae Aphrophoridae
Size 2-4 mm 5-7mm
Habitat Orchards Underground
Diet Fruit Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Worldwide tropical and subtropical regions Europe, North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Citrus Mealybug

A soft-bodied, waxy-coated insect that clusters on citrus fruits, stems, and roots while feeding on sap. Heavy infestations weaken plants and contaminate fruit with honeydew and wax.

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Did You Know?

The ladybird beetle Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, known as the mealybug destroyer, was one of the first biocontrol agents ever deployed against this pest.

Common Froghopper

The classic form of the common froghopper with mottled brown coloring. Creates the familiar cuckoo-spit on plants.

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Did You Know?

The white frothy cuckoo-spit on plants is produced by nymphs blowing air into a sticky fluid excreted from their rear end.