Spittlebugs II

• Spittlebugs I

Biology

Spittlebugs are easily recognized by the mass of foam that they secrete around their bodies. One species that occurs on strawberries is the meadow spittlebug. The nymphs are white to green in colour, with dark eyes and distinct legs. The adult meadow spittlebug is bright green when it emerges but quickly turns a dull brown. It is about 5-7 mm long.

Symptoms of Damage

In strawberries, the nymphs can be found on and between clusters of flower buds, on leaf stems, and on young growth within the crown. The nymphs are quite small at early-bloom but are easily seen by their froth during the picking season. The nymphs usually mature in June and emerge from the spittle masses as winged grey-brown adults. When present in large numbers, the nymphs can weaken plants and distort the leaves and berries, especially during dry summers. However, they are mainly a nuisance pest because strawberry pickers dislike getting their hands smeared with the spittle while gathering the berries.

Monitoring

Check the fields biweekly. Look for the froth or white spittle produced by nymphs. The froth is usually 1-2 cm in diameter. More than one nymph may be hidden in the froth. During hot, dry weather, the froth masses are usually lower on the plant, making it more difficult to find the nymphs. During warm, humid weather, the opposite is true. Adult spittlebugs are present throughout the summer. They can be collected by gently using a sweep net to brush the upper foliage.

Economic Thresholds

There are not known economic thresholds on the prairies. Some growers use an "aesthetic threshold" of one froth mass per square foot.

Comments

Because these insects are usually more abundant in weedy strawberry fields, good weed control practices may prevent serious infestations.

For further information, contact your GO representative.