Little Mesquite Cicada

Pacarina puella

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pacarina puella: //pækəˈriːnə ˈpwɛlə//

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

Images

Summary

Pacarina puella, or the little mesquite cicada, is a small cicada known for its significant head size and is found mainly in the southern United States and parts of Central America. It is associated with mesquite habitats and has a life cycle that is primarily active from May to September, utilizing plants primarily for sap feeding and possibly serving important ecological roles.

Physical Characteristics

2 cm in length, tiny cicada with a large head.

Identification Tips

Listen for the distinctive song associated with mesquite; size and head shape may help with identification.

Habitat

Subtropical scrub and semi-arid forests to macrothermal deciduous habitats.

Distribution

Found from Arizona to Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Mexico to Central America.

Diet

Siphoning sap from plants, primarily mesquite.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details not extensively documented; primarily observed between May and September.

Reproduction

Reproduction specifics are not provided, but cicadas typically lay eggs in plant tissues.

Ecosystem Role

Pollinator and part of the food web, serving as prey for various birds and other predators.

Cultural Significance

Associated with the song of mesquite, relevant in local folklore and ecology.

Collecting Methods

Netting during the day
Acoustic lure for identification

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Alcohol preservation

Evolution

Replacement name for Cicada signifera due to nomenclatural preoccupation.