Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their unique life cycles and loud calls. They belong to the family Cicadidae and are mostly found in temperate to tropical climates.
Key Characteristics
1. Life Cycle: Cicadas are famous for their distinctive life cycles, particularly the periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years. Most of their life is spent underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots.
2. Sound Production: Male cicadas produce loud, distinctive noises using special organs called tymbals to attract females.
3. Species Variety: There are over 3,000 species of cicadas worldwide, varying in size, color, and life cycles.
4. Harmlessness: Despite their size and noise, cicadas are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting.
Ecological Role
Indicator Species: Their emergence and population sizes can indicate environmental changes.
Aeration of Soil: Their burrowing activities help in aerating the soil.
Food Source: They serve as a food source for various predators.
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