Gagatopsalta obscura

Gagatopsalta obscura
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Family: Cicadidae
Genus: Gagatopsalta
Species:
G. obscura
Binomial name
Gagatopsalta obscura
Ewart, 2005[1][2]
Synonyms
  • Gagatopsalta obscurus Ewart, 2005

Gagatopsalta obscura is a species of cicada, also known as the clip-clop cicada, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2005 by Australian entomologist Anthony Ewart.[1]

Etymology

The specific epithet, from Latin obscurus (‘inconspicuous’), refers to the cicadas’ habits and behaviour.[1]

Description

The length of the forewing is 15–17 mm.[3]

Distribution and habitat

The species is known only from the Adavale district of South West Queensland. Its associated habitat is woodland dominated by Acacia cambagei (gidgee).[3][2]

Behaviour

Adults have been heard from November to January, clinging to the outer branches of the gidgee, uttering syncopated, double-ticking calls.[3]

References

  1. ^ 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 [463]. Retrieved 2025-10-05.
  2. ^ a b "Species Gagatopsalta obscurus Ewart, 2005". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-05.
  3. ^ a b c "Clip-clop Cicada Gagatopsalta obscura Ewart, 2005". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-05.