Clown Bug vs Citrus Spittlebug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Clown Bug Citrus Spittlebug
Scientific Name Mictis profana Clastoptera undulata
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Coreidae Clastopteridae
Size 20-25 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Gardens Orchards
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Australia Southeastern United States, Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Clown Bug

A large Australian coreid bug also known as the crusader bug for the cross-shaped pattern on its back. It is a common garden visitor.

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Did You Know?

The white cross pattern on its folded wings gives it the alternate name 'crusader bug' in Australia.

Citrus Spittlebug

A small oval-shaped spittlebug with dark brown and cream banding. Nymphs produce frothy spittle masses on pecan, citrus, and other trees throughout the southeastern United States.

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Did You Know?

Spittle masses produced by the nymphs can be so abundant on pecan trees that they rain down on people walking beneath, giving the impression of a light drizzle.