Cicada
There’s a reason why cicadas are so loud. Not only do they want to make themselves heard, but their calls can actually deafen predators — and sometimes humans, too. Cicadas are some of the loudest insects on the planet, with some species producing sound levels up to 120 decibels. That’s as loud as a rock concert or a chainsaw! But what is it about these tiny critters that make them so noisy? Keep reading to find out.
Cicada scientific name
There are approximately 3,000 species of cicadas around the world. The vast majority of them are found in the tropics, but there are also several hundred species found in temperate regions. Cicadas all have a similar basic body plan, with two pairs of wings and large eyes. However, there is a great deal of variation in size, color, and morphology between different species. The scientific name for cicadas is Hemiptera: True bugs. This group includes all insects that have piercing and sucking mouthparts. Cicadas are most closely related to aphids, plant hoppers, and shield bugs.
There are two main types of cicadas: annual cicadas and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas live all around the world and have a lifespan of 2-5 years. They emerge from the ground each year to mate and lay eggs before dying off. Periodical cicadas, on the other hand, have much longer life cycles, ranging from 13-17 years. They spend the vast majority of their lives underground, only emerging every few years to mate.
Cicada physical appearance
Cicadas are one of the most easily recognizable insects, thanks to their large size and unique appearance. Adult cicadas are typically between 1 and 2 inches long, with bright red eyes and a hard exoskeleton. Their wings are transparent, and their abdomens are striped with black and yellow. Cicadas can be found all over the world, and they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Some species of cicada are even fluorescent! Despite their different appearances, all cicadas share one common trait: they are all incredibly loud. Cicadas produce a high-pitched buzzing sound by rubbing their wings together, which they use to attract mates. They can reach up to 120 decibels, which is as loud as a jet engine!
Cicada habitat
Cicadas are found all over the world in a wide variety of habitats. Most species live in forests, where they spend their time in the trees. Some Cicada species, however, inhabit grasslands or deserts. In all of these habitats, Cicada nymphs live underground, coming to the surface only to mate. When they emerge from the ground, Cicadas are often mistaken for large flies. However, Cicadas are actually harmless insects that pose no threat to humans or animals. In fact, many people find them to be interesting and even beautiful creatures. Thanks to their unique life cycle and striking appearance, Cicadas are one of the fascinating groups of insects on the planet.
Cicada diet
Cicadas are one of the most widespread groups of insects found all over the world. And while they may all look different, they all share one key trait: their diet. Cicadas are all plant-eating insects, and they primarily feed on sap. They use their long, piercing mouthparts to puncture plant tissue and suck out the sap. This diet gives them a lot of energy, which they need for flying and mate searching.
While cicadas generally prefer to eat from trees, they will also feed on shrubs and herbs.
In fact, they will even sometimes eat other insects if there’s nothing else around! So next time you see a cicada, remember that this harmless-looking insect is actually a voracious plant-eater.
Cicada interesting facts
Cicadas are a type of insect that is well-known for their loud, high-pitched mating call. However, there is much more to these creatures than meets the eye. Here are some interesting facts about cicadas:
- Cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground, emerging when they reach adulthood.
- During this time, they molt or shed their skin, several times.
- Once they emerge, cicadas only live for a few weeks to a few months.
- The males use their distinctive mating call to attract females.
- Cicadas are found all over the world, with different species inhabiting different continents.
- Some species of cicada are edible and considered a delicacy in certain cultures.
While they may be annoying to some, there is no denying that cicadas are fascinating creatures. The next time you hear one of these insects buzzing, take a moment to appreciate all that they are.
Cicada life cycles and reproduction
Cicadas are a type of insect that is well known for the loud noise they make. What many people don’t know, however, is that there are multiple different species of cicada, and each one has a slightly different life cycle. For example, the life cycle of the periodic cicada is 13 or 17 years long, while the life cycle of the annual cicada is only two to five weeks.
Cicadas reproduce by laying their eggs in tree branches. The eggs hatch into nymphs, which fall to the ground and burrow into the soil. The nymphs then feed on tree roots for several years before emerging as adults. Adult cicadas only live for a few weeks or months, during which time they mate and lay eggs. Once their eggs hatch, the cycle begins anew.
Cicada prevention
It’s that time of year again. The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and the cicadas are coming out to mate. For many people, this is an annoyance. But for those who are particularly sensitive to sound, the constant buzzing of these insects can be downright debilitating. So what can be done to prevent cicadas from making themselves known?
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to keep cicadas away. Some experts recommend using a mixture of water and dish soap to create a barrier around your home, but this will only work if applied before the cicadas emerge. Others suggest using loud music or Fans to drown out the sound of their mating calls, but this is only a temporary solution. The best way to prevent cicadas from being a nuisance is simply to be prepared for their arrival. Keep a supply of earplugs on hand, and consider splurging on a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. With a little bit of planning, you can make it through cicada season without going crazy.
FAQ’s
How does a cicada make its noise?
The crickets produce sounds by rubbing their wings together, not their legs. However, the cicadas possess a special organ called the tymbal that enables them to produce noise. There is a series of ribs in the tymbal.
Conclusion
Cicadas are one of the most peculiar and misunderstood creatures on earth. For such large insects, they are often ignored because they make so much noise. The next time you hear the distinctive sound of cicadas in your neighborhood, take a closer look. These fascinating insects have been around for millions of years and offer an exciting glimpse into the natural world.