Mountain cicada

The mountain cicada (Cicadetta montana) is a unique insect species belonging to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadidae. As the only species of cicada native to many parts of Europe, it is well-adapted to temperate climates. Unlike its tropical counterparts, it possesses distinct morphological features and behaviors that allow it to thrive in diverse forest and orchard environments, often going unnoticed until the loud calling of males begins.

This pest affects a wide range of host plants, including pome fruits like apples and pears, as well as stone fruits such as peaches and plums. Furthermore, vineyards and various broad-leaved trees (oak, linden, and ash) serve as natural hosts. In agricultural settings, the mountain cicada is considered a nuisance due to the damage caused by both the nymphal stage, which feeds underground, and the adult stage, which feeds on sap above ground.

The biological cycle of the mountain cicada is notably prolonged, with nymphs spending several years (typically 3 to 5 years) developing underground. During this period, they feed on the xylem of tree roots, which can significantly stunt the growth of young trees. Once mature, the nymphs emerge from the soil to undergo their final molt into adults. The adult phase is short-lived, focusing primarily on reproduction and egg-laying within woody stems.

Damage caused by the mountain cicada is two-fold. First, adult females cause mechanical harm by creating longitudinal slits in young shoots to deposit their eggs, which weakens the branches and disrupts vascular transport. Second, the heavy feeding of nymphs on the root systems can lead to decreased vigor and overall decline of the tree. While rarely a cause of immediate tree death, persistent infestations reduce fruit quality and tree longevity.

• Regular inspection and pruning of damaged shoots.
• Destruction of wood infested with egg clutches.
• Maintaining soil health to support tree vigor against root feeding.
• Application of insecticides at the onset of adult emergence.
• Encouraging natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps.

Effective management strategies require a combination of preventative cultural practices and targeted chemical interventions. Pruning infested shoots during the dormant season or immediately after egg-laying is the most effective way to reduce the population. Chemical controls are generally limited to specific windows when adults are most active and visible. Long-term success relies on monitoring emergence patterns and integrating biological controls where possible to keep populations below economic injury levels.