Kermes Scale vs Masked Devil Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Kermes Scale | Masked Devil Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Kermes vermilio | Cyclochila virens |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Kermesidae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 3-6 mm | 35-42 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Eastern Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Kermes Scale
Source of kermes dye, one of the oldest known red dyes. Used since ancient Egyptian and Roman times. The word "crimson" derives from the Arabic word for kermes.
Did You Know?
The English word "crimson" comes from the Arabic "qirmiz" meaning kermes — this insect dye has colored royal robes and religious vestments for over 3,000 years.
Masked Devil Cicada
A large Australian cicada with vivid green coloring and a loud, piercing call. It is closely related to the Green Grocer and can be found in similar habitats.
Did You Know?
Australian children have created an elaborate folklore around cicada shell collecting, with different species assigned varying levels of rarity and value.