Ignored for 150 years: distribution, song description, habitat, and threat of Cicadetta albipennis (Fieber, 1876) – mysterious tiny cicada species from Sicily (Italy) (Cicadidae: Cicadettinae)

Abstract

Cicadetta albipennis was described 150 years ago, yet no data on its ecology, acoustic behaviour, distribution and conservation have been published. This cicada species, notable for its distinct morphology, is among the smallest in Europe. We investigated the taxon within its presumed endemic range in Sicily and present the first data on its habitat preferences, acoustic behaviour and current distribution. Additionally, we provide the first photographs of live males and females. Cicadetta albipennis is an early-emerging species, active at least from mid-late May to the beginning of June. Its song consists of a monotonous series of short, purring echemes characterized by a supposedly very slow syllable rate and one of the highest frequency ranges among European cicadas. The species was found scattered in southern Sicily, although specimens from the north of the island (labelled — maybe erroneously — “Palermo” and “Messina”) exist in historical collections. The species is associated with grassland habitats shaped by herbivores. We discuss habitat availability across prehistoric and historic times, and suggest that C. albipennis is threatened by the disappearance of large wild herbivores and the decline of traditional, extensive grazing practices.