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| TWO-LINED SPITTLEBUG SYMPTOMS AND
MANAGEMENT Prosapia bicinata (Say) |
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| LIFE CYCLE: Overwinter
in thatch, behind leaf sheaths, or in stems. Eggs hatch
as turf comes out of dormancy. Newly hatched nymphs seek
moist, humid feeding sites near the base of grass plants.
As they feed, they excrete a frothy spittle mass for
protection from desiccation and enemies. Masses are found
just below the soil surface (0-5 cm). Nymphs mature as
adults in 34-60 days depending on moisture and
temperature. Eggs hatch in 2-3 weeks during mid-summer.
Generally 2 generations per year. FEEDING SYMPTOMS:: Adults and nymphs suck juice from the grass, weakening the plant. Adults inject a salivary toxin that is translocated up and down the stem, cause the whole plant to turn yellow and brown, then the grass dies. Sparse, blighted looking turf. |
MANAGEMENT: Most
abundant in years with high spring and summer rainfall.
Damage resembles chinch bug feeding except that it occurs
in shady areas rather than full sun. Young spittlebugs
cannot survive under dry conditions and thrive in moist
thatchy turf. Withhold irrigation when nymphs are
hatching in the spring or midsummer. Dethatch and aerate
to reduce spittlebug buildup. Chemical control: Acephate (ORTHENE) and chlorpyrifos (DURSBAN). Granules can be use followed by irrigation. Natural controls: Fungus Entomophthora grylii with irrigation on warm evenings |
