Drymopsalta crepitum
| Drymopsalta crepitum | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hemiptera |
| Suborder: | Auchenorrhyncha |
| Family: | Cicadidae |
| Genus: | Drymopsalta |
| Species: | D. crepitum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Drymopsalta crepitum | |
Drymopsalta crepitum is a species of cicada, also known as the Cape York heath-buzzer, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is native to Australia. It was described in 2005 by Australian entomologist Anthony Ewart.[1]
Etymology
The specific epithet crepitum (Latin for a crackling or rattling sound) refers to the calls made by the cicadas.[1]
Description
The length of the forewing is 11–16 mm.[3]
Distribution and habitat
The species occurs in Far North Queensland from the tip of the Cape York Peninsula south-east to near Cooktown and south-west to Weipa and Normanton. The associated habitat is heathland, forest with understorey shrubs, and riparian communities.[3][2]
Behaviour
The cicadas are xylem feeders. Adults are heard from December to March, clinging to stems and branches, uttering high-pitched series of chirps punctuated by intervening “ticks”.[3]
References
- ^ a b c Ewart, A (2005). "New genera and species of small ticking and 'chirping' cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadoidea: Cicadidae) from Queensland, with descriptions of their songs". Memoirs of the Queensland Museum. 51 (2): 439–500 [483].
- ^ a b "Species Drymopsalta crepitum Ewart, 2005". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-01.
- ^ a b c "Cape York Heath-buzzer Drymopsalta crepitum Ewart, 2005". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-01.