What Do Cicadas Do? Understanding The Life Cycle And Behavior Of Cicadas

Cicadas are fascinating insects that capture the attention of many due to their unique life cycles and distinctive sounds. These intriguing creatures, often heard but seldom seen, have a significant role in our ecosystem. In this article, we will explore what cicadas do throughout their lives, including their life cycle, behavior, and ecological importance. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of these remarkable insects.

Cicadas are known for their loud mating calls, which can be heard during the warmer months. However, their lives are much more complex than just their songs. Understanding what cicadas do involves delving into their biology, behavior, and the various stages they go through. This article will shed light on their habits, roles in the ecosystem, and the impact they have on our environment.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply curious about these unique insects, this article will provide valuable insights into cicadas. So, let's dive in and discover what cicadas do!

Table of Contents

• 1. Life Cycle of Cicadas
• 2. Behavior of Cicadas
• 3. Ecological Importance of Cicadas
• 4. The Sounds Cicadas Make
• 5. Different Species of Cicadas
• 6. Myths and Facts About Cicadas
• 7. Cicadas and Climate Change
• 8. Conclusion

1. Life Cycle of Cicadas

The life cycle of cicadas is one of the most fascinating aspects of their existence. Cicadas undergo a process called incomplete metamorphosis, which includes three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult.

1.1 Egg Stage

The life of a cicada begins when the female lays her eggs in the bark of trees. This usually occurs in late spring or early summer. Each female can lay hundreds of eggs, depending on the species. After about 6-10 weeks, the eggs hatch into nymphs.

1.2 Nymph Stage

Once they hatch, cicada nymphs drop to the ground and burrow into the soil, where they will spend most of their lives. This nymph stage can last anywhere from 1 to 17 years, depending on the species. During this time, they feed on the sap from the roots of plants and trees.

1.3 Adult Stage

After several years underground, nymphs emerge from the soil, shedding their exoskeletons to become adults. This transition typically occurs during the warmer months. Adult cicadas have a short lifespan, usually lasting 2 to 6 weeks, during which they focus on mating and reproducing.

2. Behavior of Cicadas

Cicadas exhibit a range of behaviors that are critical for their survival and reproduction. Here are some of the key behaviors associated with cicadas:

• Mating Calls: Male cicadas produce loud calls to attract females. These calls can reach over 120 decibels, making them some of the loudest insects.
• Feeding: Adult cicadas primarily feed on the sap of trees and plants, using their specialized mouthparts to pierce plant tissues.
• Predator Avoidance: Cicadas have several strategies to avoid predators, including their rapid life cycle and their ability to emerge in large numbers, overwhelming potential threats.

3. Ecological Importance of Cicadas

Cicadas play a vital role in their ecosystems. They contribute to soil health, serve as food for various predators, and aid in the pollination of plants. Here are some of their key ecological contributions:

• Soil Aeration: As nymphs burrow underground, they aerate the soil, which enhances water infiltration and root growth.
• Food Source: Many animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, rely on cicadas as a food source, especially during their emergence.
• Pollination: While feeding, cicadas can also contribute to the pollination of certain plants, aiding in their reproduction.

4. The Sounds Cicadas Make

The sounds cicadas make are one of their most distinguishing features. The mating calls produced by males are created using a specialized structure called a tymbal. These sounds serve to attract females and communicate with other males.

4.1 Types of Sounds

Cicadas produce a variety of sounds, including:

• Calling: Loud, rhythmic sounds used by males to attract females.
• Alarm: Short bursts of sound made when cicadas sense danger, warning others of predators.

5. Different Species of Cicadas

There are over 3,000 species of cicadas worldwide, each with its unique characteristics and behaviors. Some notable species include:

• Periodic Cicadas: Known for their long life cycles of 13 or 17 years, they emerge in large numbers every cycle.
• Annual Cicadas: These species emerge every year, typically in late summer.

6. Myths and Facts About Cicadas

There are numerous myths and misconceptions about cicadas. Here are a few facts to clarify common myths:

• Myth: Cicadas are harmful to trees.
  Fact: While they feed on sap, they do not significantly harm healthy trees.
• Myth: Cicadas only emerge every 17 years.
  Fact: While some species have long cycles, many emerge annually.

7. Cicadas and Climate Change

Climate change is impacting cicadas and their habitats. Changes in temperature and weather patterns can affect their life cycles and emergence times. Studies indicate that as temperatures rise, cicadas may emerge earlier in the season, which can disrupt their mating and feeding patterns.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, cicadas are remarkable insects with complex life cycles and behaviors that play essential roles in our ecosystems. From their unique mating calls to their long nymph stages, cicadas contribute to soil health and provide food for various animals. Understanding what cicadas do helps us appreciate their importance in nature.

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