Pyropsalta rhythmica

Pyropsalta rhythmica
Scientific classificationEdit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Family: Cicadidae
Genus: Pyropsalta
Species:
P. rhythmica
Binomial name
Pyropsalta rhythmica

Pyropsalta rhythmica is a species of cicada, also known as the orange bandit or sprinkler cicada, in the true cicadafamily, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. The species is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2022 by entomologistsMaxwell Sydney Moulds and David C. Marshall.[1][2]

Etymology

The specific epithetrhythmica, from Latin rhythmicus, refers to the rhythmical quality of the song.[1]

Description

The length of the forewing is 18–31 mm.[3]

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in coastal and subcoastal areas of south-west Western Australia, from Perth southwards to Yeagarup and eastwards to Porongurup, in the Swan Coastal Plain, Jarrah Forest and Warrenbioregions. Associated habitats are open forest and woodland.[3][2]

Behaviour

Adult males may be heard from November to March, clinging to the stems, trunks and branches of trees, including eucalypts, emitting strident ticking calls.[3]

References

  1. ^ abcMoulds, MS; Marshall, DC (2022). "New genera and new species of Western Australian cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae)". Zootaxa. 5174 (5): 451–507 [500]. doi:10.11646/zootaxa.5174.5.1. Retrieved 2025-11-08.
  2. ^ abc"Species Pyropsalta rhythmica Moulds & Marshall, 2022". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-08.
  3. ^ abc"Orange Bandit Pyropsalta rhythmica Moulds and Marshall, 2022". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. 2025. Retrieved 2025-11-08.