Kermes Scale vs Redeye Cicada

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Kermes Scale Redeye Cicada
Scientific Name Kermes vermilio Psaltoda moerens
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Kermesidae Cicadidae
Size 3-6 mm 35-42 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Europe 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.

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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.

Redeye Cicada

A striking Australian cicada with bright red eyes and a dark body. Large choruses create a deafening noise in urban and suburban areas.

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Did You Know?

Mass emergences in Sydney can produce collective noise levels rivaling a rock concert.