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Plains harvest-fly

Plains harvest-fly

Megatibicen dealbatus

A species of Megatibicen, Also known as Whitewashed harvest-fly

The distinguished plains harvest-fly is known for its captivating acoustic display, which is most intense during the warmer months. This species boasts a resonance chamber within its abdomen, which it adeptly uses to produce its characteristic symphony. Primarily herbivorous, it feeds on plant sap, employing its specialized mouthparts designed for piercing and sucking. With a life cycle that spans several years, the majority of its life is spent underground as a nymph before it emerges to serenade the summer air.

General Info About Plains harvest-fly
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Attributes of Plains harvest-fly
Colors
Black
Bronze
White
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Plains harvest-fly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Plains harvest-fly feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Plains harvest-fly
Populations of N. dealbatus are located in central North America in the great plains region where habitat is favorable. This species is found East of the Rocky mountains and West of the Mississippi river. It has been reported from the following states in the U.S.: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming.
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Life Cycle of Plains harvest-fly
Egg The egg of plains harvest-fly is oval-shaped and often laid in a secure environment. Initial size is quite small, and color generally blends with the laying substrate to avoid predators.
Nymph After hatching, a wingless nymph emerges with a resemblance to the adult plains harvest-fly. It molts several times, each instar growing larger, developing wing buds, and changing in coloration towards the adult's appearance.
Adult Emerging after the final molt, the adult plains harvest-fly's wings are fully formed, and it achieves its ultimate size and color. The adult now focuses on feeding and finding mates to reproduce.
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Interesting Facts About Plains harvest-fly
Plains harvest-fly have the unique ability to rapidly cool their body temperature through evaporation, allowing them to avoid overheating during intense acoustic activity.
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Scientific Classification of Plains harvest-fly
Tips for Finding Plains harvest-fly
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How Can You Attract Plains harvest-fly
Adult plains harvest-fly are not typically attracted to traditional bait or food traps, as they feed on plant sap and not easily imitated food sources.
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Habitat Preferences of Plains harvest-fly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of plains harvest-fly are primarily located in slits in the bark of tree branches. Once hatched, the nymphs fall to the ground and burrow into the soil, where they can be found at various depths depending on development, usually near tree roots. Searching for nymphs involves gently excavating around the bases of trees, particularly where the soil is soft and moist. The mature nymphs emerge from the ground and can often be found on tree trunks before they molt into adults. Adult plains harvest-fly are typically seen on trees and shrubs, especially during the mating season, where they are most vocal and visible.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Plains harvest-fly
The best time to find adult plains harvest-fly is during the daytime, typically in the late spring or early summer when they are most active and their singing is prevalent. For immature stages, spring and summer are suitable as well, but detecting them may require more effort.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Plains harvest-fly
Warm, sunny, and humid weather can increase the chances of finding plains harvest-fly, as these conditions are favorable for their activity and mating calls.
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How and Where Can You Find Plains harvest-fly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of plains harvest-fly are deposited in slits made by females in tree branches. To find eggs, examine small branches of host trees for tiny, oval-shaped eggs that may be arranged in rows.
Nymph Plains harvest-fly nymphs live underground, feeding on sap from roots. To find nymphs, carefully dig around the base of trees, especially where you have heard plains harvest-fly singing in previous seasons. Be mindful of tree roots and avoid excessive disturbance.
Upon emergence from the nymph stage, plains harvest-fly are soft and vulnerable until their exoskeleton hardens. Look on tree trunks or other vertical structures in the morning during the emergence season, which can be determined by the sudden appearance of empty nymphal exoskeletons (exuviae).
Adult Adult plains harvest-fly can be found by following their loud, characteristic songs usually emitted by males. Pinpoint trees or shrubs from where the calls emanate. They are often perched high up and can be seen using binoculars, or collecting using a long-handled net.
Are Plains harvest-fly harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Plains harvest-fly
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Hurt Plant

As an adult and nymph, plains harvest-fly targets plant roots, stems, and leaves by sucking vital fluids. This feeding activity can range from mild to severe damage, leading to withered foliage, reduced plant vigor, and potential secondary infections.

More Effects of Plains harvest-fly

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