Spittle Insect (Noun)
Meaning
Small leaping herbivorous insect that lives in a mass of protective froth which it and its larvae secrete.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The spittle insect's unique defense mechanism involves covering itself in a protective froth to deter predators.
- Spittle insects are often found on plant stems, where they feed on sap and secrete their characteristic froth.
- Gardeners sometimes encounter spittle insects on their plants, but they are generally harmless to humans.
- The larvae of the spittle insect produce even more froth than the adults, creating a thick, protective coating.
- Spittle insects are most active during the warmer months, when they can be seen leaping short distances between plants.