About Decula Periodical Cicada
The smallest of the 17-year periodical cicada species with a distinctive ticking call. It is often the least abundant species within a periodical cicada brood.
Did You Know?
It is the rarest of the three 17-year species and was not described as a separate species until 1962.
How to Identify Decula Periodical Cicada
Decula Periodical Cicada (Magicicada septendecula) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Cicadidae. Adults typically measure 22-26 mm.
Decula Periodical Cicada Habitat
Decula Periodical Cicada is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Eastern United States, co-occurring with other Magicicada species. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Decula Periodical Cicada Diet and Feeding
Decula Periodical 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 Decula Periodical Cicada Found?
Decula Periodical Cicada can be found in Eastern United States, co-occurring with other Magicicada species, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Decula Periodical Cicada can be found
Is Decula Periodical Cicada Dangerous?
Decula Periodical 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.
Decula Periodical Cicada Role in Nature
Decula Periodical 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 Decula Periodical Cicada
What does Decula Periodical Cicada look like?
The Decula Periodical Cicada typically measures 22-26 mm.
Where is Decula Periodical Cicada found?
The Decula Periodical Cicada is found in Eastern United States, co-occurring with other Magicicada species and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Decula Periodical Cicada eat?
The Decula Periodical Cicada feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves.
Is Decula Periodical Cicada dangerous to humans?
The Decula Periodical Cicada is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Decula Periodical Cicada?
It is the rarest of the three 17-year species and was not described as a separate species until 1962.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Decula Periodical Cicada (Magicicada septendecula). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/decula-periodical-cicada
MLA:
"Decula Periodical Cicada." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/decula-periodical-cicada.