Metamorphosis

Chlorocysta sp.                           macro invertebrate insect colourful
 
This cicada has recently transformed from its subterranean juvenile life-form to that of a beautiful, winged adult. This specimen is in the final stages of the process, the wings unfurling, drying, and hardening, the purple hues of the left wing reveal soft ripples. It always amazes me that some cicada species spend several years underground, compared with a few short weeks of adult life when we hear their singing.