Australian Harlequin Bug vs Periodical Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Harlequin Bug | Periodical Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dindymus versicolor | Magicicada septendecim |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Pyrrhocoridae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 25-33 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Harlequin Bug
A small but conspicuous red and black bug that often aggregates in large numbers on tree trunks, fences, and walls during autumn. Its bright colouration warns predators of its foul-tasting defensive secretions.
Did You Know?
Harlequin bugs produce a pungent smell when disturbed, and large aggregations can number in the thousands.
Periodical Cicada
Emerges in massive synchronized broods every 17 years. Nymphs live underground feeding on tree root sap. Males produce the loudest sounds of any insect at up to 100 dB.
Did You Know?
Periodical cicadas spend exactly 17 years underground (a prime number), and scientists believe this evolved to prevent predators from synchronizing their own cycles.