About Neoterpnosia mawphlangensis:
- It is a new species of cicada.
- It was discovered in forests of Mawphlang in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills.
- 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.
What are Cicadas?
- Cicadas are insects belonging to the superfamily Cicadoidea, within the order Hemiptera. They are known for their loud, species-specific calls, produced by males using specialised organs called tymbals.
- 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.
- The lifespan of cicadas varies depending on the species and whether they are annual or periodical cicadas.
- Male cicadas produce loud calls using specialised organs called tymbals, located on their abdomen, to attract females.
