Myopsalta xerograsidia
| Myopsalta xerograsidia | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hemiptera |
| Suborder: | Auchenorrhyncha |
| Family: | Cicadidae |
| Genus: | Myopsalta |
| Species: | M. xerograsidia
|
| Binomial name | |
| Myopsalta xerograsidia | |
Myopsalta xerograsidia is a species of cicada, also known as the fishing reel buzzer, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2017 by Australian entomologist Lindsay Popple.[1]
Etymology
The specific epithet xerograsidia is a compound derived from Greek xeros (dry) and grasidi (grass), referring to the cicadas’ favoured habitat.[1]
Description
The length of the forewing is 16–18 mm.[3]
Distribution and habitat
The species has an extensive range across the drier parts of northern Australia. Associated habitats include grasslands and grassy woodlands.[3][1]
Behaviour
Adult males may be heard from October to March, uttering high-pitched, wavering, buzzing calls which have been likened to the sound of a fishing reel being wound.[3]
References
- ^ a b c d Popple, LW (2017). "A revision of the Myopsalta crucifera (Ashton) species group (Hemiptera: Cicadidae: Cicadettini) with 14 new species from mainland Australia". Zootaxa. 4340 (1): 1–98 [87]. doi:10.11646/zootaxa.4340.1.1. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ "Species Myopsalta xerograsidia Popple, 2017". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-21.
- ^ a b c "Fishing Reel Buzzer Myopsalta xerograsidia Popple, 2017". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-10-21.