New Zealand Cicada vs Hawthorn Shieldbug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Cicada | Hawthorn Shieldbug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Kikihia muta | Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Acanthosomatidae |
| Size | 15-20 mm | 13-17 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Underground |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island) | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Cicada
A small endemic cicada from New Zealand notable for being silent - it has lost the ability to produce sound. It communicates through substrate vibrations transmitted through plant stems instead. This species represents a unique evolutionary path among cicadas.
Did You Know?
Despite belonging to one of the noisiest insect families, this cicada is completely mute and instead communicates by vibrating plant stems.
Hawthorn Shieldbug
A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.
Did You Know?
Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'