Cicadas are insects known for their distinctive, loud calls that are heard during the summer months. There are thousands of species of cicadas found all over the world, but the most famous ones are the periodical cicadas, which emerge from the ground in large numbers every 13 or 17 years.
Cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on the sap of tree roots. This period of underground living can last anywhere from 2 to 17 years, depending on the species. During this time, they undergo several molts and growth stages until they reach maturity.
Manna Cicada – France (credits: www.nature-stock.com)
Once mature, cicadas crawl out of the ground and climb up trees or other tall objects. They then shed their nymphal skins and emerge as adult cicadas. This is a crucial moment in their lives, as adult cicadas only have a few weeks to mate, lay eggs, and die.
The cicada’s mating call is the most well-known aspect of its life cycle. Male cicadas sing a loud, rhythmic song to attract females. The volume and frequency of their calls can reach up to 120 decibels, making them one of the loudest insects in the world.
Manna Cicada exo skelet – France (credits: www.nature-stock.com)
After mating, female cicadas use their ovipositor to cut slits into twigs and branches of trees, where they lay their eggs. The eggs hatch into nymphs, which then fall to the ground and burrow into the soil to begin their long period of feeding and growing underground.
Cicadas are important to the ecosystem as they play a role in the natural food chain. They serve as food for birds, reptiles, and small mammals, and their molted skins and dead bodies provide a source of nutrition for other insects and microorganisms.
Cicadas are not harmful to humans, but their loud calls can be a nuisance. They do not bite or sting and do not cause damage to trees or buildings. However, their mass emergence can disrupt outdoor activities and damage young trees and shrubs if the females lay eggs in them.
FAQ:
Q: How long do cicadas live above ground?
A: Cicadas live above ground for a few weeks, during which they mate, lay eggs, and die.
Q: What do cicadas feed on?
A: Cicadas feed on the sap of tree roots while they are underground. Once they emerge as adults, they do not feed as they only have a few weeks to live.
Q: Are cicadas harmful to humans?
A: No, cicadas are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting and do not cause any damage to trees or buildings.
Q: How often do periodical cicadas emerge from the ground?
A: Periodical cicadas emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years.
Q: Why do male cicadas sing?
A: Male cicadas sing to attract females for mating.
