Cicadas: The Noisy Insects That Emerge Every 13 or 17 Years
The Meaning of Cicada
Cicada is the name given to any insect in the Cicadidae family. These homopterous insects have a stout body, wide blunt head, and large transparent wings.
Cicadas' Unique Sound
Male cicadas are known for the loud noises they produce by vibrating membranes. These sounds are used to attract females and can be heard from miles away.
Cicadas' Life Cycle
Cicadas have a unique life cycle. They spend the majority of their lives as nymphs underground, feeding on the roots of trees. After 13 or 17 years, they emerge from the ground and shed their exoskeletons. They then spend a few weeks as adults, mating and laying eggs, before finally dying.
The Periodical Cicadas
The most well-known cicadas are the periodical cicadas. These cicadas emerge in large numbers every 13 or 17 years. The reason for this long life cycle is unknown, but it is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that helps them avoid predators.
Comments