Cicada

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Cicada

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Detailed Information About The Name Cicada

The name 'Cicada' refers to a fascinating insect belonging to the order Hemiptera and the suborder Auchenorrhyncha. Cicadas are known for their distinct sound, which is produced by the males as a mating call using specialized structures on their abdomen called tymbals. These insects are found worldwide, with over 3,000 known species. They are relatively large, with some species growing up to 2.5 inches in length.

Cicadas have a unique life cycle that spans several years, depending on the species. They are best known for their long periods of underground development as nymphs, which can last anywhere from two to seventeen years. During this time, they feed on the sap of plant roots using their piercing-sucking mouthparts.

When the nymph's development is complete, it emerges from the ground and climbs onto a nearby tree or plant stem. There, it molts for the final time, shedding its exoskeleton and transforming into an adult cicada. The newly emerged adult has soft and pale wings, which it inflates and hardens over a period of several hours. Once its wings are fully functional, the cicada embarks on its relatively short adult life, which lasts only a few weeks.

Cicadas are primarily known for their loud and distinctive mating calls. The males produce their calls by vibrating their tymbals, which create a shrill and buzzing noise that can reach up to 120 decibels. These calls not only attract females but may also serve to establish territories and deter predators. It is important to note that different species of cicadas have different call patterns and frequencies.

Cicadas are herbivorous insects, feeding on the fluids of various plant species. While some species are considered pests due to their feeding habits potentially causing damage to young trees and shrubs, many cicadas have little to no impact on plants' health. They contribute to ecosystems in various ways, including nutrient cycling and acting as a food source for other animals such as birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Given their distinctive appearance, ecology, and remarkable life cycle, cicadas have captivated the interest of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. They continue to intrigue researchers, who strive to uncover more about these intriguing insects and their role in the natural world.