Alpine Click Beetle vs Chorus Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alpine Click Beetle | Chorus Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hypnoidus rivularius | Amphipsalta zelandica |
| Order | Coleoptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Elateridae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 25-35 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Underground |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Northern Europe, Alps, Scandinavia | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Alpine Click Beetle
A small, dark click beetle found in damp alpine and subalpine habitats. Its larvae develop in moist soil among grass roots.
Did You Know?
Like all click beetles, it can launch itself into the air with an audible click to escape predators.
Chorus Cicada
The most common and widespread cicada in New Zealand, producing the iconic summer chorus heard throughout the country. Nymphs spend several years underground feeding on root sap before emerging to moult into adults. Males produce their characteristic song using tymbal organs.
Did You Know?
The chorus cicada's distinctive whirring call is so emblematic of New Zealand summers that it has become a cultural symbol of the season.