Scissor(s) Grinder

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Neotibicen pruinosus: //ˌnioʊˈtɪbɪsɛn pruˈɪnoʊsəs//

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Summary

Neotibicen pruinosus, commonly known as the scissor grinder, is a cicada species prevalent across the eastern United States, found in wooded areas and grasslands. It is identifiable by its size, coloration, and distinctive sound. Variations exist within the species, particularly in color, including a rare pale variant.

Physical Characteristics

Most specimens average above 2 inches (2.0 & 2.3 inches) in total length including wings. Typically green and brown with a black abdomen dorsally; a rare red-brown form exists with very little green. T. pruinosus demonstrates significant variability among individuals and geographically.

Identification Tips

Often confused with Tibicen canicularis, Tibicen linnei, Tibicen winnemanna, Tibicen latifasciatus, and Tibicen robinsonianus. Characteristic traits include: heavy pruinose markings behind the tymbal covers in males, a black abdomen (not glossy), well-developed paired pruinose spots in females, and visually obstructive costal margins of forewings.

Habitat

Woodlands, suburban areas, often in riparian environments.

Distribution

Eastern and central North America, west of the Appalachians, including most of the Mississippi River basin; reported from the Mid-West, Eastern Plains, Gulf States, and along the Atlantic coast.

Diet

Feeds on tree fluids from the xylem using a proboscis.

Evolution

Historically, all species in the genus Neotibicen were included in the genus Tibicen, until Tibicen was split into several genera. Neotibicen means 'new flute player'.

Similar Taxa

• Tibicen canicularis
• Tibicen linnei
• Tibicen winnemanna
• Tibicen latifasciatus
• Tibicen robinsonianus

Misconceptions

Mistaken for other Tibicen species due to overlapping morphological characteristics and calls. Many specimens have been misidentified as T. winnemanna or T. linnei.

Tags

• Cicada
• Neotibicen pruinosus
• Scissor Grinder
• Insects
• Entomology