About Alder Spittlebug
A common European spittlebug found on willows and alders. Nymphs produce copious frothy spittle masses and adults can jump impressive distances.
Did You Know?
The frothy spittle mass protects the nymph from temperature extremes, predators, and parasitoids while also preventing desiccation.
How to Identify Alder Spittlebug
Alder Spittlebug (Aphrophora alni) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Aphrophoridae. Adults typically measure 8-10 mm.
Alder Spittlebug Habitat
Alder Spittlebug is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Alder Spittlebug Diet and Feeding
Alder Spittlebug feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves with specialised mouthparts. Sap feeders extract nutrients directly from the plant's vascular system.
Where Is Alder Spittlebug Found?
Alder Spittlebug can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Alder Spittlebug can be found
Is Alder Spittlebug Dangerous?
Alder Spittlebug is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Alder Spittlebug Role in Nature
Alder Spittlebug is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Alder Spittlebug
What does Alder Spittlebug look like?
The Alder Spittlebug typically measures 8-10 mm.
Where is Alder Spittlebug found?
The Alder Spittlebug is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Alder Spittlebug eat?
The Alder Spittlebug feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves.
Is Alder Spittlebug dangerous to humans?
The Alder Spittlebug is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Alder Spittlebug?
The frothy spittle mass protects the nymph from temperature extremes, predators, and parasitoids while also preventing desiccation.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Alder Spittlebug (Aphrophora alni). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alder-spittlebug
MLA:
"Alder Spittlebug." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alder-spittlebug.