Do Cicadas Fly? Uncovering the Secrets of These Noisy Insects

Cicadas are a group of insects in the order Hemiptera, closely related to aphids and leafhoppers, with more than 1,300 species found worldwide, primarily in tropical regions [1]. These remarkable insects captivate our attention with their loud, distinct songs and their unique life cycles.

These insects have transparent, fly-like wings which can vary in size by species [5]. Upon emerging from their nymph stage, cicadas let their wings dry before commencing flight. Some species are known for their impressive, large-scale emergences after spending years underground, while others are present annually [4].

When cicadas take flight, their main goals are to find mates and lay eggs. They use their strong wings to expertly navigate their environments, sometimes evading predators such as birds and even large wasps called cicada killers [2].

Cicada Basics

Species and Classification

Cicadas are insects belonging to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadidae. There are two main types: annual or dog-day cicadas and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas usually have a green or camouflaged color, whereas periodical cicadas have a black body with reddish-orange features.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 1 to 1.5 inches long
• Wings: Four clear, fly-like wings
• Eyes: Compound eyes
• Antennae: Relatively small
• Color: Varies by species (green, brown, black)

Life Cycle

Cicadas undergo a life cycle consisting of eggs, nymphs, and adults.

1. Eggs: Female cicadas lay their eggs in tree branches.
2. Nymphs: Eggs hatch into nymphs, which fall to the ground and burrow into the soil.
3. Adults: After spending years underground (up to five years for annual cicadas and either 13 or 17 years for periodical cicadas), nymphs emerge as adults. Adult cicadas mate, and the females lay eggs to start the cycle anew.

Example: Neotibicen is a genus of annual cicadas that are active during the dog days of summer. Their green or brown coloration helps them blend into their surroundings.

Flight in Cicadas

Wing Structure and Function

Cicadas have two pairs of clear, fly-like wings with the first pair being longer than their abdomen. The wings are folded over their back, resembling a tent. The following are the key features of cicada wings:

• Transparent and lightweight
• Veins provide structural support
• Allows for efficient flight

Taking Off and Landing

Cicadas have a unique method of taking off and landing, which includes:

• Flapping their wings rapidly
• Lift-off from surfaces at various angles
• An agile landing on tree branches or other surfaces

Flight for Mating and Escaping Predators

Flight is crucial for cicadas in terms of mating and escaping predators. Examples of their flight behaviors include:

• Males flying to locate females for mating
• Active communication during flight using songs
• Evasive flight patterns to escape predators like the cicada killer, a large wasp that preys on cicadas

In conclusion, cicada flight is highly adapted for essential survival functions, from mating to evading predators, thanks to their delicate and efficient wing structure.

Periodical vs. Annual Cicadas

Brood Cycles and Emergence Patterns

Periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years, while annual cicadas emerge every year. These different emergence patterns result in distinctive broods:

• Periodical cicadas: Known as Brood X, they are found mostly in the Eastern United States.
• Annual cicadas: Also called dog-day cicadas, they can be found throughout the country.

Differences in Appearance

Periodical and annual cicadas differ in their appearance. Here’s a comparison:

Behavior and Mating Calls

Both periodical and annual cicadas have unique behaviors:

• Periodical cicadas: They swarm in large groups, creating a loud buzzing sound. Males vibrate their tymbal membranes to attract females for mating.
• Annual cicadas: Males produce mating calls using their tympana, which are often heard in late summer. Males and females mate, and females lay eggs in tree branches.

The mating calls of periodical cicadas are generally louder and more intense than those of annual cicadas. After mating, both types of cicadas die, and their eggs hatch six to seven weeks later. The nymphs fall to the ground, go into the soil, and the cycle begins again.

Cicadas Underground

Nymph Development

Cicadas begin their life cycle as nymphs living underground. They undergo several developmental stages called instars, with periodical cicadas experiencing approximately three to five nymphal instars.

The duration of cicadas underground varies depending on the species. Annual cicadas usually spend up to five years underground before emerging, whereas periodical cicadas remain in the soil for either 13 or 17 years.

Feeding on Plant Roots

Cicada nymphs feed on the sap from tree roots using their sucking mouthparts. They usually reside at depths ranging from 1-8 feet. Damage to plants is typically minimal, as cicadas are not usually considered an economic problem in most regions. In some cases, however, heavy nymph feeding can reduce plant yields or even cause plant death.

Soil Temperature Effects on Emergence

Soil temperature plays a crucial role in determining the emergence of cicadas. Nymphs will emerge from the ground when soil temperatures reach a specific threshold, signaling the beginning of their transition to adulthood.

In summary, cicadas spend a significant portion of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots and developing until they are ready to emerge. Soil temperature plays a crucial role in determining the timing of their emergence and subsequent transition to adulthood.

Cicadas in Popular Culture and Science

Literature and Folklore References

Cicadas have been significant in many cultures since ancient times. In some Asian cultures, they symbolize re-birth, health, wealth, and happiness. Furthermore, these fascinating insects have inspired various forms of art, including literature, music, and theater ¹.

Scientific Study and Significance

Cicadas are known for their unique life cycles and the loud noises they produce. Some periodical cicadas have a 13-year cycle, while others have a 17-year cycle ². Scientific studies have focused on understanding their emergence patterns and mating behaviors.

The loud noises cicadas produce can reach 90-100 decibels (dB). These sounds are essential for attracting a mate, with the males “singing” by vibrating a membrane on the sides of their bodies ².

Characteristics of Cicadas:

• Life cycles: 13 or 17 years (periodical cicadas) ²
• Size: 1-1.5 inches long (adults) ³
• Color: black body with red-brown eyes (periodical cicadas), green or camouflaged (annual cicadas) ⁴
• Sound: courting calls produced by males ²

Pros and Cons of Cicadas:

• Pros: Significant cultural value (literature, folklore), interesting for scientific study
• Cons: Loud noises can be disruptive

Comparison Table: Periodical Cicadas vs. Annual Cicadas