Citrus Cicada

Diceroprocta apache

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Auchenorrhyncha
Infraorder: Cicadomorpha
Superfamily: Cicadoidea
Family: Cicadidae
Subfamily: Cicadinae
Tribe: Fidicini
Genus: Diceroprocta
Species: apache

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diceroprocta apache: /ˌdaɪsɛroʊˈprɒktə əˈpætʃi/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Apache Cicada by VJAnderson. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Insect Specimen from LAKE Collection (34027968702) by Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Diceroprocta apache P1220051a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Diceroprocta apache P1210941a by
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Diceroprocta apache, known as the citrus cicada, has distinct morphological features such as reddish eyes and a variable appearance of the pronotal collar. Its distribution encompasses various regions in North America, and it has a median lifespan of three to four years. Identification can be challenging due to similarities with other cicada species.

Physical Characteristics

Eyes are reddish (rust-colored). Body is usually dark, often with reddish-brown coloration, especially in the var. ochroleuca which is a reddish color morph characteristic of northern and western populations. The pronotal collar may be yellowish or straw-colored, appearing bone-colored or tan, especially in populations north of Tucson, AZ. Mesonotum exhibits variability, often dark with reddish-brown patterns. The abdomen typically has an incomplete pruinose band. Opercula are pointed and subparallel or slightly curved.

Identification Tips

The hind margin of the pronotum or collar can be yellowish or orange, while the anterior portion is often dark. Comparison of opercula shape and coloration is essential to distinguish between D. apache and similar species.

Habitat

Found in both Central America and North America; specific habitats are not detailed.

Distribution

Reported in northern Mexico, across most of Arizona, southern Utah, southern Nevada, and southeastern California. Distribution remains suspect and incomplete due to potential misidentifications.

Diet

Herbivorous, feeding on plant sap.

Life Cycle

Median life cycle is around three to four years from egg to natural adult death.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Many specimens of D. apache are misidentified and may overlap in traits with D. semicincta and D. cinctifera, leading to confusion.