New Cicada Species Neoterpnosia mawphlangensis Discovered in Meghalaya

Neoterpnosia mawphlangensis Latest News

A new species of the genus Neoterpnosia (Neoterpnosia mawphlangensis sp. nov.) was recently described from the semi-evergreen forests of Mawphlang Hills, Meghalaya, northeastern India.

About Neoterpnosia mawphlangensis

• It is a new species of cicada.
• It was discovered in forests of Mawphlang in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills at elevations of 1,378 to 1,605 metres.
• It is distinguished by characteristic structures in the male reproductive organs, along with distinctive markings on its transparent wings.  
• It is active mainly around dawn and calls from the upper branches and foliage of subtropical pine forests. 
• Males typically begin singing at around 6 pm, often forming a chorus that can continue for about 30 minutes under suitable weather conditions. 
• The insects were observed calling during misty and rainy weather but stopped during heavy rain. 
• Researchers also noted that they are well camouflaged among moss and are not attracted to light. 

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What are Cicadas?

• They are a family of more than 3,000 species of sound-producing insects. 
• They are known for their loud, complex and species-specific acoustic signals or songs.
• They are found worldwide, with the highest diversity occurring in tropical regions. 
• Lifecycle:
  • The cicada lifecycle begins with an adult female laying eggs in slits she created in tree branches or stems. 
  • Once the eggs hatch, the nymphs fall to the ground and burrow into the soil, feeding on plant sap for several years. 
  • Once the mature nymphs have emerged from the ground, they’ll firmly attach themselves to a tree branch or other natural element to molt and transform into an adult. 
  • From here, they’ll live for approximately four to six weeks. 
• The lifespan of cicadas varies depending on the species and whether they are annual or periodical cicadas. 
  • Annual cicadas typically live for four to six weeks as adults.
  • Periodical cicadas have much longer lifespans due to their extended nymphal periods, which can last either 13 or 17 years, depending on the species.  Once they emerge, they also live for a few weeks.  
• Male cicadas produce loud calls using specialised organs called tymbals, located on their abdomen, to attract females.

News: TAXA