About Bladder Cicada
An Australian cicada with a remarkably inflated translucent green abdomen in males. The hollow abdomen acts as a resonating chamber for its call.
Did You Know?
The male's abdomen is almost entirely hollow and balloon-like, functioning as a living loudspeaker.
How to Identify Bladder Cicada
Bladder Cicada (Cystosoma saundersii) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Cicadidae. Adults typically measure 45-55 mm.
Bladder Cicada Habitat
Bladder Cicada is found in beaches & coastal habitats, particularly across Australia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Bladder Cicada Diet and Feeding
Bladder Cicada feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves with specialised mouthparts. Sap feeders extract nutrients directly from the plant's vascular system.
Where Is Bladder Cicada Found?
Bladder Cicada can be found in Australia, where it inhabits beaches & coastal environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Bladder Cicada can be found
Is Bladder Cicada Dangerous?
Bladder Cicada is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Bladder Cicada Role in Nature
Bladder Cicada is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Bladder Cicada
What does Bladder Cicada look like?
The Bladder Cicada typically measures 45-55 mm.
Where is Bladder Cicada found?
The Bladder Cicada is found in Australia and typically inhabits beaches & coastal environments.
What does Bladder Cicada eat?
The Bladder Cicada feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves.
Is Bladder Cicada dangerous to humans?
The Bladder Cicada is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Bladder Cicada?
The male's abdomen is almost entirely hollow and balloon-like, functioning as a living loudspeaker.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Bladder Cicada (Cystosoma saundersii). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/bladder-cicada
MLA:
"Bladder Cicada." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/bladder-cicada.