Illyria major
| Illyria major | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hemiptera |
| Suborder: | Auchenorrhyncha |
| Family: | Cicadidae |
| Genus: | Illyria |
| Species: | I. major
|
| Binomial name | |
| Illyria major | |
Illyria major, also known as the desert rattler, is a species of cicada in the true cicada family. It is endemic to Australia.[1][2][3]
Description
The forewing length is 31–37 mm.[3]
Distribution and habitat
The species occurs in arid regions of northern Western Australia from Shark Bay, eastwards through the central Northern Territory to Mount Isa in north-western Queensland. The habitat includes open Acacia shrubland.[2][3]
Behaviour
Adults cling to the stems of shrubs and small trees, uttering loud, penetrating, rattling calls.[3]
References
- ^ a b Moulds, MS (1985). "Illyria, a new genus for Australian cicadas currently placed in Cicada L. (=Tettigia Amyot) (Homoptera: Cicadidae)". General and Applied Entomology. 17: 25–35 [28, 30].
- ^ a b c "Species Illyria major Moulds, 1985". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2025. Retrieved 2025-08-30.
- ^ a b c d L.W. Popple (2025). "Desert Rattler Illyria major Moulds, 1985". A web guide to the cicadas of Australia. Popple Creative Industries. Retrieved 2025-08-30.