Cercopoidea

Cercopoidea is a superfamily of sap-feeding insects in the order Hemiptera, within the suborder Auchenorrhyncha. It comprises two living families: Cercopidae (spittlebugs) and Aphrophoridae (froghoppers). Members are small to medium-sized and are characterized by strong hind legs for jumping; adults typically hold the wings roof-like over the body. Mouthparts are piercing-sucking, and they feed on xylem sap, which is low in nutrients.

Nymphs produce and inhabit foamy masses of secretions around themselves, giving the group its common name. The foam provides protection from predators and desiccation. Nymphs pass through several instars within the spittle. Eggs are laid in plant tissue, often in slits or capsules, and hatch into nymphs that enter the foam.

Life cycles vary by species and climate, but many cercopoids have one or two generations per year. They inhabit a wide range of plants, including grasses, shrubs, and trees, across temperate and tropical regions. Spittle masses are conspicuous on hosts, and adult activity may be observed on foliage and stems.

Economic and ecological significance: Spittlebugs are generally not major direct pests, but some species can cause cosmetic damage or growth stunting. More important is their role as vectors of plant pathogens, notably Xylella fastidiosa, transmitted during feeding by several cercopoids, including Philaenus spumarius in Europe and North America.

Taxonomic note: Cercopoidea is a relatively compact lineage within Auchenorrhyncha, united by certain morphological features such as tarsal segmentation and specific wing venation, and is subject to revision as phylogenetic methods advance.