Black Cicada vs Central Asian Apollo
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Black Cicada | Central Asian Apollo |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Maoricicada nigra | Parnassius actius |
| Order | Hemiptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 65-85 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island) | Central Asia, Pamir, Tian Shan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Black Cicada
A striking all-black alpine cicada endemic to the mountains of the South Island of New Zealand. Its dark colouration helps it absorb heat in cool alpine environments. It produces a distinctive high-pitched buzzing call.
Did You Know?
This cicada's black body acts as a solar panel, allowing it to warm up quickly in the cold alpine air to reach the body temperature needed for flight.
Central Asian Apollo
A large, high-altitude Apollo butterfly of the Pamir and Tian Shan mountains. It has a powerful gliding flight over barren rocky terrain.
Did You Know?
It is one of the highest-flying butterflies in the world, recorded above 5000 meters.