Lesser Bladder Cicada (species complex)
Cystosoma schmeltzi Distant, 1892
© Popple Creative Industries 2014–2023
Male
Species number (TNS):
594, 595.
Fore wing length:
26–36 mm.
Distribution and seasonality:
Patchy from near Palmerville
(B. Gray), Mossman, near Mt.
Garnet and from Townsville
coastally south to Rockhampton
west to Blackall and further
south to Stanthorpe in
Queensland and Gunnedah in
New South Wales. A record from
King Canyon in the Northern
Territory requires investigation.
Adults occur from September to
March.
Notable localities:
Kings Canyon (D. Rentz),
Springsure, Mitchell, Chinchilla,
Mundubbera, Millmerran, Crows
Nest, Narrabri.
Habitat:
Dry sclerophyll forest and
woodland. Also small trees and
shrubs around rural towns.
Species complex includes:
Small Bladder Cicada (TNS:
594): From near Palmerville
south to Gunnedah.
Chanting Bladder Cicada
(TNS: 595): From Expedition
Range and south of Moura
south-east to Mundubbera.
Calling song and behaviour:
A broken rattle, similar to the call
of a Bladder Cicada, but emitted
at a higher pitch (Small Bladder
Cicada) or a regular chanting
call, with males singing in
unison (Chanting Bladder
Cicada). Singing occurs only at
dusk.
Similar species:
Bladder Cicada, Daintree
Bladder Cicada, Rare Bladder
Cicada.
Small Bladder Cicada
Chanting Bladder Cicada
Female
Male
Chanting Bladder Cicada
Currently known extent
dr-pop.net database record:
Small Bladder Cicada
Female
