Palapsalta serpens

Palapsalta serpens is a species of cicada, also known as the pale-sided tree-buzzer, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 2016 by entomologists Christopher Owen and Maxwell Sydney Moulds.

Etymology

The specific epithet serpens refers to the resemblance of the sclerotised projection, at the end of the male endotheca, to a snake’s forked tongue.

Description

The length of the forewing is 16–18 mm.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in the Top End of the Northern Territory, including Kakadu National Park. The associated habitat is eucalypt woodland.

Behaviour

Adult males may be heard in January and February, clinging to the upper branches of eucalypts, emitting stuttering and buzzing songs.