Spittlebug vs Kermes Scale
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Spittlebug | Kermes Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Philaenus spumarius | Kermes vermilio |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Aphrophoridae | Kermesidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 3-6 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Spittlebug
A small, stout brown bug whose nymphs produce masses of frothy white "spittle" on plant stems. The foam protects them from predators, parasites, and desiccation.
Did You Know?
Spittlebug nymphs produce their protective foam by blowing air through a secretion from their abdomen, creating a humid microenvironment that shields them from the sun.
Kermes Scale
Source of kermes dye, one of the oldest known red dyes. Used since ancient Egyptian and Roman times. The word "crimson" derives from the Arabic word for kermes.
Did You Know?
The English word "crimson" comes from the Arabic "qirmiz" meaning kermes — this insect dye has colored royal robes and religious vestments for over 3,000 years.