Palapsalta ligneocauda

Palapsalta ligneocauda is a species of cicada, also known as the lime tree-buzzer, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2018 by Australian entomologists David L. Emery, Nathan J. Emery and Paul M. Hutchinson.

Etymology

The specific epithet ligneocauda refers to the wood-brown colouration of parts of the species’ anatomy.

Description

The length of the forewing is 13–17 mm.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs from the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia eastwards to Cape Crawford in the Northern Territory. The associated habitat is riverine eucalypt woodland.

Behaviour

Adult males may be heard from November to March, clinging to the upper branches of eucalypts, uttering songs characterised by short buzzing notes followed by a lilting sequence.