Kikihia convicta

Kikihia convicta
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Family: Cicadidae
Genus: Kikihia
Species:
K. convicta
Binomial name
Kikihia convicta
Synonyms
  • Melampsalta convicta Distant, 1892

Kikihia convicta, also known as the Norfolk Island cicada, is a species of cicada in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to the Australian territory of Norfolk Island in the south-west Pacific Ocean. It was described in 1892 by English entomologist William Lucas Distant.[1][2]

Description

The cicadas are green in colour, but fade to yellow after death. The length of the forewing is 19–22 mm.[3]

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs only on Norfolk Island. The associated habitat is low shrubland, including disturbed areas.[3][2]

Behaviour

Adults are heard from October to April, clinging to the trunks and branches of small trees and shrubs, uttering calls characterised by an initial series of phrases morphing into a simple chirping song.[3]

References

  1. ^ a b Distant, WL (1892). "On some undescribed Cicadidae, with synonymical notes". Annals and Magazine of Natural History. 6 (9): 313–327 [322].
  2. ^ a b c "Species Kikihia convicta (Distant, 1892)". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-09-22.
  3. ^ a b c L.W. Popple (2025). "Norfolk Island Cicada Kikihia convicta (Distant, 1892)". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. Retrieved 2025-09-22.