Polynesian Cicada vs Periodical Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Polynesian Cicada | Periodical Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Raiateana oulietea | Magicicada septendecim |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 25-35 mm | 25-33 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | French Polynesia, Pacific Islands | North America |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Polynesian Cicada
An island-endemic cicada found in French Polynesia with a slender dark body and clear wings. Its buzzing call can be heard across the volcanic island valleys.
Did You Know?
Island cicadas like this one often evolve unique calls on each island, contributing to speciation across archipelagos.
Periodical Cicada
Emerges in massive synchronized broods every 17 years. Nymphs live underground feeding on tree root sap. Males produce the loudest sounds of any insect at up to 100 dB.
Did You Know?
Periodical cicadas spend exactly 17 years underground (a prime number), and scientists believe this evolved to prevent predators from synchronizing their own cycles.