Box Sucker vs Saratoga Spittlebug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Box Sucker Saratoga Spittlebug
Scientific Name Psylla buxi Aphrophora saratogensis
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Psyllidae Aphrophoridae
Size 2-3 mm 8-11 mm
Habitat Gardens Farmland
Diet Herbivores Sap Feeders
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Box Sucker

A tiny jumping plant louse that causes cupping and distortion of box leaves. Nymphs produce waxy secretions. Can cause significant damage to ornamental box hedges.

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Did You Know?

Causes the characteristic cupped and distorted leaves seen on many box hedges in spring.

Saratoga Spittlebug

A spittlebug that is a serious pest of young red pine plantations in North America. Its feeding causes branch dieback and tree mortality.

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Did You Know?

Outbreaks in pine plantations have killed thousands of young trees, making it a significant forestry pest.