Cicadas are insects that are commonly found in many parts of the world. They are known for their loud and distinctive buzzing sounds. Cicadas belong to the order Hemiptera, which also includes other insects like aphids and leafhoppers.
What Do Cicadas Look Like?
Cicadas have long, narrow bodies that are usually brown or green in color. They have large, transparent wings that are held flat over their bodies when they are not flying. Cicadas also have large eyes and long, slender legs.
One of the most distinctive features of cicadas are their sound-producing organs, which are located on their abdomens. These organs are called tymbals, and they are used to produce the loud buzzing sounds that cicadas are famous for.
Where Do Cicadas Live?
Cicadas can be found in many different habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. They are most commonly found in areas with trees, as the larvae of cicadas feed on the sap from tree roots.
What Do Cicadas Eat?
Cicadas feed on the sap from tree roots during the larval stage. Once they emerge as adults, cicadas do not eat at all. They only live for a few weeks, and their sole purpose during this time is to mate and lay eggs.
How Do Cicadas Reproduce?
Male cicadas produce loud buzzing sounds to attract females. Once a female has been attracted, the male will mate with her. The female then lays her eggs in the bark of trees, and the cycle starts all over again.
Why Do Cicadas Make So Much Noise?
Cicadas make loud buzzing sounds to attract mates. The sound is produced by the tymbals on their abdomens, which vibrate rapidly. The noise can be heard from a distance of up to a mile away!
Are Cicadas Harmful?
Cicadas are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting, and they do not spread diseases. However, cicadas can cause damage to young trees by feeding on their sap.
What Are Some Interesting Facts About Cicadas?
- There are over 3,000 species of cicadas in the world.
- Cicadas spend most of their lives underground as larvae.
- Cicadas can live for up to 17 years underground before emerging as adults.
- The loud buzzing sounds of cicadas can reach up to 120 decibels, which is as loud as a chainsaw or a rock concert.
- Cicadas are a favorite food of many animals, including birds, squirrels, and even humans in some cultures.
Conclusion
Cicadas are fascinating insects that have captured the imaginations of people for centuries. They are known for their loud buzzing sounds and distinctive appearance. While they may cause damage to young trees, cicadas are generally harmless to humans and play an important role in many ecosystems.