Surinam Lanternfly vs Polynesian Cicada

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Surinam Lanternfly Polynesian Cicada
Scientific Name Fulgora surinamensis Raiateana oulietea
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Fulgoridae Cicadidae
Size 70-85 mm wingspan 25-35 mm
Habitat Forests Farmland
Diet Sap Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Suriname, Guyana, Northern Brazil French Polynesia, Pacific Islands
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Surinam Lanternfly

A large Neotropical lanternfly with a broad head process and cryptically patterned forewings that reveal startling eyespot hindwings when threatened. The body is mottled gray-brown.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, it suddenly flashes its eyespot-bearing hindwings to startle predators, a behavior known as a deimatic display.

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.

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Did You Know?

Island cicadas like this one often evolve unique calls on each island, contributing to speciation across archipelagos.