Cicada

Harmonizing sound and survival, the Cicada showcases nature's stunning synchronization with its signature song and intricate life cycles. Emerging in rhythmic cycles, they rejuvenate ecosystems.

Classification
Hemiptera
Average Lifespan
13-17 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Cicada

Gallery

Cicada - Image 1
Cicada - Thumbnail 1
Cicada - Thumbnail 2
Cicada - Thumbnail 3
Cicada - Thumbnail 4
Cicada - Thumbnail 5

Key Insights at a Glance

Scientific Name
Magicicada septendecim
Size
1.5-2.5 inches
Weight
0.5-2.5 grams
Lifespan
13-17 years
Habitat
Temperate Forests, Deciduous Woodlands
Diet
Herbivorous
Mating Success
70-80%
Brain Type
Complex Ganglion

Did You Know?

Cicadas are known for their loud, buzzing calls, reaching up to 120 decibels, making them some of the loudest insects on Earth.

Taxonomy & Classification

Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their loud calls and unique life cycles, with some species emerging only every 17 years. Let's understand the evolutionary journey and classification of these remarkable herbivores.

RANK
CLASSIFICATION
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Hemiptera
Family
Cicadidae
Genus
Magicicada

Lifecycle and Growth

Egg, Nymph, Adult

6-10 weeks

Egg

Female cicadas deposit hundreds of eggs into plant stems, where they remain until hatching, marking the start of their life cycle.

Deposited in plant stems
2-17 years

Nymph

Nymphs live underground, subsisting on root fluids, and undergo several molts before emerging above ground for adulthood.

Long subterranean development
4-6 weeks

Adult

Adults emerge synchronously, mate, and create a loud chorus to attract mates, completing their life cycle.

Synchronised emergence and mating chorus

Dietary Habits

A specialized sap feeder, this insect relies on its piercing mouthparts to extract fluids from plant xylem and phloem.

DIET TYPEDESCRIPTION
Primary DietConsumes primarily tree sap from deciduous trees, tapping into various species like oak, maple, and willow.
Secondary DietAdditionally feeds on herbaceous plant fluids when tree sap is less accessible, utilizing nearby vegetation.
OccasionalOccasionally exploits agricultural crops or garden plants, especially in areas of dense vegetation or human habitation.
Cicada - Food

Behaviour and Adaptations

Discover the fascinating adaptations that enable the Cicada to thrive in its environment.

90%

Sound Amplification

Produces loud, distinctive calls to attract mates and deter predators.

Sound reaches up to 120 decibels
85%

Periodical Emergence

Emerges in synchronized cycles to overwhelm predators and ensure survival.

Appears every 13 or 17 years
88%

Burrowing Mastery

Efficiently navigates underground to access roots for nourishment.

Can tunnel up to 8 feet deep

Ecosystem Impact

Cicadas play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance through their unique life cycle and behaviors.

Soil Aerators

Cicadas improve soil quality by burrowing, enhancing oxygen flow and nutrient distribution.

Promotes healthy plant growth

Nutrient Cyclers

Their decaying bodies enrich the soil with essential nutrients, supporting plant life.

Boosts soil fertility

Prey for Predators

Serve as a significant food source for birds, mammals, and other insects.

Supports diverse wildlife populations

Conservation Challenges

Understanding and addressing the major threats to Cicada populations.

Severity80%

Habitat Loss

Urbanization and deforestation reduce essential breeding areas for cicadas.

Protected reserves, afforestation projects, urban planning
Severity85%

Chemical Exposure

Pesticides and pollutants harm cicada populations and ecosystems.

Organic farming, reduced pesticide use, environmental regulations
Severity70%

Climate Change

Altered weather patterns disrupt cicada life cycles and habitats.

Carbon reduction, habitat restoration, climate adaptation plans

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Cicada live?

Cicadas have varied life spans. Periodical cicadas live underground for 13 to 17 years as nymphs, emerging for a few weeks as adults. Annual cicadas have a shorter lifecycle, spending 2-5 years underground and living as adults for approximately 4-6 weeks.

What do Cicada eat?

Cicadas primarily feed on plant sap, which they obtain by piercing plant stems with their mouthparts. Nymphs feed on root sap underground, while adults consume sap from trees and shrubs. They do not cause significant damage to plants.

Are Cicada poisonous?

Cicadas are not poisonous to humans or animals. They are harmless and do not pose any known toxic threat. However, their loud mating calls can be a nuisance in areas with large populations.

Are Cicada endangered?

Most cicada species are not endangered. While some specific species may face threats due to habitat loss, the majority of cicadas have stable populations. Periodical cicadas, with their massive emergences, are particularly abundant.

What do Cicada symbolize?

In various cultures, cicadas symbolize rebirth, immortality, and transformation due to their unique life cycle. In ancient Chinese and Greek cultures, they were seen as symbols of renewal and resurrection.

Do Cicada bite?

Cicadas do not bite or sting humans. They have mouthparts designed for piercing plant stems to drink sap, not for biting. They are harmless and pose no threat to people or pets.

What color are Cicada?

Cicadas come in various colors, typically featuring earthy tones like green, brown, and black. Some species have vibrant red or orange eyes, adding to their distinctive appearance. Their coloration helps them blend into their surroundings.

Does a Cicada have wings?

Yes, cicadas have wings. Adult cicadas possess two pairs of transparent wings with distinct veins. These wings are used for flying and producing their characteristic loud mating calls by rapidly vibrating them.

What does a Cicada look like?

Cicadas are robust insects with stout bodies, large compound eyes, and membranous wings. They vary in size, typically measuring 1 to 2 inches long. Their prominent eyes and unique wing structure make them easily recognizable.

Is a Cicada an insect?

Yes, a cicada is an insect. It belongs to the order Hemiptera, which includes true bugs. They are known for their piercing-sucking mouthparts and are related to aphids, leafhoppers, and other similar insects.

Explore More Insects

Discover more fascinating insects from our comprehensive collection of detailed profiles