Pine spittlebug

Taxonomic classification. The pine spittlebug (Aphrophora parallela) is a member of the order Hemiptera and the family Aphrophoridae. This insect is widely recognized as a serious pest in temperate coniferous forests and nurseries, known for its distinct behavior of producing froth to protect its nymphs during development.

Host plants and damage scope. The primary hosts include various species of pines, though it can also infest spruces and firs. Nymphs and adults feed by sucking phloem sap from the twigs and shoots. This feeding activity is particularly detrimental to young saplings, often causing growth inhibition, branch dieback, and in severe cases, the death of the host plant.

Biology and life cycle. This species typically completes one generation per year. It overwinters in the egg stage, which are laid under the bark scales of the host tree. Upon hatching in spring, the nymphs begin feeding and immediately start producing the characteristic white foam (spittle). They reside within these masses until they reach the adult stage in early summer.

Nature of injury. The damage is caused by the insertion of the insect's piercing-sucking mouthparts into the plant tissues. The constant removal of sap weakens the tree significantly. Furthermore, the feeding sites often become necrotic, leading to distorted growth and reduced tree vigor. High infestation levels increase the tree's vulnerability to subsequent attacks by secondary pests like bark beetles.

Control measures. Effective management requires an integrated approach:

• Regular forest health surveys to detect early signs of foam masses.
• Application of chemical insecticides, particularly targeting the nymph stage in nurseries.
• Silvicultural practices, such as maintaining healthy stand density and promoting biodiversity.
• Encouraging natural predators, including specific parasitic wasps and birds that prey on adults.