Black Cicada vs Sycamore Seed Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Black Cicada | Sycamore Seed Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Maoricicada nigra | Belonochilus numenius |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Lygaeidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island) | North America, Europe |
| 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.
Sycamore Seed Bug
A seed bug native to North America that feeds exclusively on sycamore seeds. It has recently invaded Europe where it spread rapidly.
Did You Know?
This species was first detected in Europe in 2008 and has since spread across the continent in less than a decade.