Influence of Adult Meadow Spittlebug Feeding on Forage Quality

Abstract

Adult meadow spittlebugs, Philaenus spumarius (L.), were placed in several densities on potted caged alfalfa, birdsfoot trefoil. and red clover plants. The effect of spittlebug feeding on quality was determined by analyzing (or protein, fat, crude fiber, ash, and nitrogen-free extract (simple sugars) Alfalfa was considerably more susceptible to damage at the infestation rates tested than either red clover or birds-foot trefoil. It was shown that heavy infestations of adult meadow spittlebugs may cause serious damage to forage legume quantity and quality. In general there was a reduction of protein, fat, and moisture content.