Cicadas

Cicadidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cicadidae: //sɪˈkædɪdiː//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Magicicada septendecim by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Cicadidae, or true cicadas, are large insects known for their distinctive sounds and unique life cycles, with a global distribution. They are primarily recognized for their loud mating calls, produced by males, and their lengthy underground nymph stages, which can last for several years.

Physical Characteristics

Cicadas are large insects characterized by their membranous wings, triangular formation of three ocelli on the top of their heads, and short, bristle-like antennae.

Identification Tips

Cicadas can be identified by their size, wing structure, and the loud calls produced by males for mating. They boast a distinctive triangular head formation and multiple types of acoustic signals.

Habitat

Typically found in deciduous forests and grasslands.

Distribution

Worldwide, with over 3,400 species and 172 species, along with 22 subspecies in North America.

Diet

Nymphs feed on plant roots underground, while adults feed on fluids from plants using their specialized mouthparts.

Life Cycle

Separated into two categories: annual cicadas emerge in various years, while periodical cicadas synchronize their emergence after 13 or 17 years.

Reproduction

Males call to attract females, and once courtship involves a 'click' from the females. Post-mating, newly emerged cicadas climb trees and molt into adults, ready to reproduce.

Ecosystem Role

Cicadas play a role in plant ecosystems through their feeding habits, and their emergence provides a food source for numerous predators.

Economic Impact

Cicadas do little damage to crops or trees despite their large populations during emergence events.

Health Concerns

Cicadas lack a sense of smell, which may affect their interaction with other insects and their environment.

Evolution

Fossil records indicate the earliest cicadas date back to the Jurassic period, evolving significantly over millions of years.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Cicadas are often mistakenly thought to be harmful pests when they are generally harmless to crops and trees.

Tags

  • Cicadas
  • Insects
  • Entomology
  • Sound Production
  • Life Cycle