Cicada Facts: Nature's Remarkable Insects

Cicadas are one of nature's most fascinating and mysterious insects. Known for their loud, distinctive calls and unique life cycles, they captivate people around the world. Here are some intriguing facts about cicadas that highlight their remarkable nature.

Unique Life Cycle

Cicadas have one of the most unusual life cycles in the insect world. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on sap from plant roots. Depending on the species, they remain underground for several years, with some species, like the periodical cicadas in North America, emerging only once every 13 or 17 years.

Mass Emergence

When cicadas emerge, they do so in large numbers, often in the millions. This mass emergence is a survival strategy known as predator satiation. By appearing in such large numbers, they overwhelm predators, ensuring that enough of them survive to reproduce and continue the species.

Molting Process

Upon emerging from the ground, cicada nymphs climb onto trees or other vegetation to molt one last time. This process, called ecdysis, involves shedding their exoskeleton to reveal their adult form. The empty exoskeletons, often seen clinging to tree trunks, are a common sight during cicada season.

Loud Calls

Male cicadas are famous for their loud, distinctive calls, which they use to attract females. They produce sound using specialized structures called tymbals, located on the sides of their abdomen. The rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles attached to these tymbals create the characteristic cicada song, which can reach up to 100 decibels, as loud as a chainsaw!

Diverse Species

There are over 3,000 known species of cicadas, each with its own unique song and life cycle. The periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years, are just one group among many. Other species, known as annual cicadas, emerge every year, although individual lifespans can range from 2 to 5 years underground.

Ecological Role

Cicadas play an important role in their ecosystems. Their emergence aerates the soil and provides a significant source of food for many predators, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and other insects. After they die, their bodies decompose, enriching the soil with nutrients that benefit plant growth.

Cultural Significance

Cicadas have been featured in various cultures throughout history. In ancient China, they symbolized rebirth and immortality. In Greek mythology, they were associated with music and poetry. Today, cicadas continue to inspire art, literature, and even cuisine in some cultures.

Harmless Creatures

Despite their loud noise and large numbers, cicadas are harmless to humans. They do not bite or sting, and their feeding habits do not significantly damage plants. Their brief above-ground period is focused on mating and laying eggs, after which the cycle begins again.

Cicadas are remarkable insects that showcase the wonders of nature's diversity and complexity. Their unique life cycles, impressive sound production, and ecological importance make them a subject of fascination and study. The next time you hear the distinctive hum of cicadas, take a moment to appreciate these incredible creatures and their role in the natural world.

More like this: