Pine Spittlebug vs Mountain Shieldbug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pine Spittlebug | Mountain Shieldbug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aphrophora cribrata | Canthophorus impressus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Aphrophoridae | Cydnidae |
| Size | 9-12 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Scandinavia, Scotland, northern Russia, alpine Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Pine Spittlebug
A large spittlebug that feeds on pine and other conifers, producing masses of froth on branches. Heavy infestations can cause branch dieback in young pine plantations.
Did You Know?
A single nymph can produce several milliliters of spittle per hour by pumping air into excreted xylem fluid.
Mountain Shieldbug
A small, dark brown to black burrowing shieldbug found in Arctic and alpine habitats. It has a broadly oval body with a prominent scutellum. Adults live at the base of plants and in soil crevices.
Did You Know?
This shieldbug emits a strong defensive odor when disturbed, which is particularly pungent in cold Arctic air.