Xeropsalta aridula
| Xeropsalta aridula | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hemiptera |
| Suborder: | Auchenorrhyncha |
| Family: | Cicadidae |
| Genus: | Xeropsalta |
| Species: | X. aridula
|
| Binomial name | |
| Xeropsalta aridula | |
Xeropsalta aridula is a species of cicada, also known as the Simpson Desert grass-shaker, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. The species is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2018 by Australian entomologist Anthony Ewart.[1][2]
Description
The length of the forewing is 10–13 mm.[3]
Distribution and habitat
The species is only known from western Queensland, at the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert. The associated habitat is open grassland.[3][2]
Behaviour
Adult males may be heard in February, clinging to the stems of grasses, emitting low-pitched, maraca-like calls.[3]
References
- ^ a b Ewart, A (2018). "Two new genera and five new species of Mugadina-like small grass cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae: Cicadettini) from Central and Eastern Australia: comparative morphology, songs, behaviour and distributions". Zootaxa. 4413 (1): 1–56 [34].
- ^ a b c "Species Xeropsalta aridula Ewart, 2018". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-13.
- ^ a b c "Simpson Desert Grass-shaker Xeropsalta aridula Ewart, 2018". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-13.