Spittlebug vs Sweat Bee Stylops
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Spittlebug | Sweat Bee Stylops |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Philaenus spumarius | Stylops nevinsoni |
| Order | Hemiptera | Strepsiptera |
| Family | Aphrophoridae | Stylopidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 2.0-3.0 mm (males) |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Parasites |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
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.
Sweat Bee Stylops
A strepsipteran endoparasite of Andrena bees in the British Isles. Parasitized bees emerge earlier than unparasitized individuals.
Did You Know?
Infected bees emerge from hibernation earlier in spring, which helps the strepsipteran synchronize its mating season.