Pyropsalta melete
| Pyropsalta melete | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hemiptera |
| Suborder: | Auchenorrhyncha |
| Family: | Cicadidae |
| Genus: | Pyropsalta |
| Species: | P. melete |
| Binomial name | |
| Pyropsalta melete | |
| Synonyms | |
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Pyropsalta melete is a species of cicada, also known as the red bandit, in the true cicadafamily, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. The species is endemic to Australia. It was described in 1850 by English entomologistFrancis Walker.[1][2]
Description
The length of the forewing is 20–27 mm.[3]
Distribution and habitat
The species occurs in coastal areas of south-west Western Australia, from Dongara southwards to Northcliffe and eastwards to Albany. Associated habitats are open eucalypt forest and woodland.[3][2]
Behaviour
Adult males may be heard from November to March, clinging to the stems and branches of trees, emitting strident ticking calls.[3]
References
- ^ abWalker, F (1850). List of the specimens of homopterous insects in the collection of the British Museum. Part 1. London: British Museum. pp. 1–260 [179].
- ^ abc"Species Pyropsalta melete (Walker, 1850)". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-08.
- ^ abc"Red Bandit Pyropsalta melete (Walker, 1850)". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-08.
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