Cicadas, known for their loud summer serenades, have been buzzing around for millions of years. Their mysterious life cycle and sudden emergence make them a fascinating subject of study. Let’s delve into some of the most interesting facts about these intriguing insects.
1. Remarkable Lifecycles
Cicadas are famous for their lengthy underground development. Periodical cicadas, a specific type found in North America, emerge every 13 or 17 years. These lifecycles are among the longest in the insect world. During this period, they remain underground as nymphs, feeding on sap from tree roots until it's time to emerge.
2. Mass Synchronization
When periodical cicadas finally emerge, they do so en masse. This synchronized emergence helps protect them from predators by overwhelming them with sheer numbers, a phenomenon known as predator satiation. Billions of cicadas emerge simultaneously, creating a stunning spectacle and a deafening chorus.
3. Loudest Insects
Cicadas are among the loudest insects in the world. Their mating calls can reach up to 100 decibels, which is about as loud as a chainsaw. Male cicadas produce these sounds using specialized organs called tymbals, which are located on either side of their abdomen. The rapid buckling and unbuckling of these tymbals create the characteristic buzzing sound.
4. Global Presence
There are over 3,000 known species of cicadas around the world. While periodical cicadas are specific to North America, annual cicadas can be found in many other regions, including Europe, Australia, and Asia. Annual cicadas emerge every year but usually have lifecycles of 2-5 years.
5. Diet and Feeding Habits
Cicadas feed primarily on plant sap. They have specialized mouthparts called proboscis, which they insert into tree roots, stems, and branches to access the sap. Despite feeding on sap for years, they don’t usually cause significant harm to trees and plants.
6. Natural Pest Control
Cicadas are a vital food source for many predators, including birds, squirrels, spiders, and wasps. Their mass emergence not only provides a feast for these predators but also helps in controlling pest populations by increasing predator numbers.
7. Molting Process
After emerging from the ground, cicada nymphs climb onto nearby trees or other surfaces and molt for the final time, shedding their exoskeletons and revealing their winged adult form. These empty exoskeletons, often found clinging to trees, are a common sight during cicada emergence.
8. Cicada Sound Differences
Different species of cicadas produce distinctive songs. This allows females to identify males of their own species amid the cacophony of buzzing. Some species even have different calls for mating, distress, and territorial behavior.
9. Cultural Significance
Cicadas hold symbolic meaning in various cultures. In ancient Greece, they symbolized immortality and rebirth. In Chinese culture, they are considered symbols of eternal youth and resurrection. Cicada-shaped jewelry and ornaments were popular in ancient China.
10. Environmentally Safe
Cicadas are harmless to humans and their pets. They don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases. Their sudden appearance can be startling, but they pose no real threat. Their impact on vegetation is minimal, and their presence can enrich the soil as their bodies decompose.
Cicadas are truly a marvel of nature, illustrating the diversity and wonder of the insect world. Next time you hear their buzzing song, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for these ancient creatures that have thrived on Earth for millions of years.
