Description of the immature and adult stages of the jujube tube spittlebug, Machaerota planitiae Distant (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Machaerotidae) in Bangladesh

Abstract

The immatures and adults of the jujube tube spittlebug, Machaerota planitiae Distant (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea: Machaerotidae) are described and illustrated. A key to nymphal instars is included. Recently introduced to Bangladesh, most likely from adjacent South and Southeast Asian countries, this species has become a serious pest of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill., Rhamnaceae) causing severe damages to jujube production in Bangladesh.