Everything You Need to Know About Cicadas: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Nature has a way of surprising us with its unique wonders. One such wonder is the emergence of cicadas, which takes place every few years and draws attention from people all around the world. Cicadas, also known as “tree crickets,” are insects that go through an incredible transformation, known as a “Brood.” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about cicadas, their life cycle, characteristics, and more.

Cicadas: An Overview

Cicadas belong to the order Hemiptera, which also includes bugs, aphids, and leafhoppers. The first thing that comes to mind when most people think of cicadas is their distinctive song, which fills the air with a buzzing or whirring sound. This sound comes from the males, who produce it to attract females for mating.

The Cicada Life Cycle

Cicadas go through a unique metamorphosis that includes five stages, starting with the egg and ending with the adult cicada. The first stage is the egg, which is laid by female cicadas in a cutting made in tree bark. The eggs then hatch into nymphs, which go through several molts before reaching their final stage, known as adulthood.

Cicada Broods and Periodical Cicadas

Cicadas are categorized into different broods, each with its own pattern and timing of emergence. Periodical cicadas, for example, emerge every 17 years, while others show up every 7 years. These broods are specific to certain regions and have characteristics that distinguish them from each other.

Cicada Characteristics

Cicadas have unique characteristics, including their song, size, and color. They come in many different varieties, and each has its distinguishing traits. Some cicadas have impressive wingspan and can grow over two inches in length. They have bulging eyes and a stout body, making them easy to identify by sight.

Cicada’s Impact on the Environment

The emergence of cicadas has a significant impact on the environment. Some animals, such as squirrels, birds, and even some dogs, feed on cicadas, and their emergence can bring about a boost in these species. However, cicadas can also cause damage to trees, especially during the egg-laying process. Trees may have open wounds, which are susceptible to diseases.

Cicadas and Humans

The emergence of cicadas is often met with mixed reactions from humans. Some people love the unique wonder and buzz of cicadas, while others may find the sound irritating. Cicadas pose little to no risk to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they lay eggs in the wrong locations or if their noises disturb sleep.

Conclusion

Cicadas are fascinating creatures that have always captivated people’s attention. This has inspired insect enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and even musicians to incorporate their unique sounds and imagery into various forms of art. With this comprehensive guide, we hope we’ve given you a comprehensive understanding of cicadas, their life cycle, and their impact on the environment. The next time you hear their distinctive sound, we hope you have newfound appreciation for these incredible creatures.