New cicada species found in Meghalaya

Source-This post on new cicada species is based on the article “Meghalaya: Researchers discover stunning new cicada species” published in “Shillong Times” on 28th February 2024.

Why in news?

Scientists have found a new cicada species known colloquially as “Butterfly Cicadas” from Meghalaya.

About new species of cicada

1. A new species of cicada in the Becquartina genus has been found in Meghalaya. It is the first-ever record of this genus in India. 

2. The cicada’s colourful wings have earned it the nickname “butterfly cicada,” with the name “bicolour” reflecting its distinctive two-color pattern.

3. The cicada inhabits the dense forests of the Garo Hills, favoring areas with thick, native vegetation.

4. Its wings feature a deep saffron color on the lower third and a matte black on the upper two-thirds, highlighted by eye-catching saffron-colored square spots.

About cicada

1. Cicadas are insects known for their ability to produce sound.

2. They possess two sets of membranous wings, significant compound eyes, and three smaller eyes called ocelli.

3. Cicadas vary in size from medium to large, with their lengths ranging between 2 and 5 cm (0.8 to 2 inches), and there are over 3,000 known species.

4. These insects are predominantly found in tropical climates, including deserts, grasslands, and forests.

5. Male cicadas create loud sounds by vibrating the membranes (tymbals) located near their abdomen’s base.

Meanwhile, female cicadas often deposit their eggs within the tissues of woody plants, and these eggs typically fall from the plant either when or shortly after hatching.

6. The cicada was first found in and around the plateau of Balpakram National Park of South Garo Hills District of Meghalaya state in the year 2017.

Later in 2020, the species was recorded from Nongkhrah community forest near Nongpoh in the Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment