Cicadas definitions
| Word backwards | sadacic |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "cicadas" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | ci-ca-das |
| Plural | The plural of the word cicadas is simply cicadas. |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (2) | i,a |
| Consonants (3) | c,d,s |
Cicadas are fascinating insects that belong to the order Hemiptera and the infraorder Cicadomorpha. These unique insects are known for their loud, buzzing calls, which are produced by the males to attract females. Cicadas are found all over the world, with over 3,000 species known to exist.
Life Cycle of Cicadas
Cicadas have a relatively long life cycle compared to other insects. They spend the majority of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on the sap of plant roots. After several years, depending on the species, the nymphs emerge from the ground and molt into adults.
Emergence Period
When cicadas emerge from the ground, they shed their exoskeletons and spend a brief period of time as soft-bodied adults. During this time, they are vulnerable to predators and must quickly harden their exoskeletons. Once hardened, they begin their mating calls to find a mate.
Mating and Reproduction
Male cicadas produce loud calls by vibrating special structures on their abdomen called tymbals. These calls can be deafening and are used to attract females. After mating, the female lays eggs in the bark of trees, and the life cycle begins again.
Ecological Importance
Cicadas play an essential role in the ecosystem as both predators and prey. They help control populations of trees by feeding on sap, and they are a food source for many animals, including birds, mammals, and other insects.
Periodical Cicadas
Some species of cicadas are known as periodical cicadas because they emerge in large numbers at set intervals, often every 13 or 17 years. These mass emergences can have a significant impact on local ecosystems but also provide a feast for predators.
Overall, cicadas are incredible insects with a fascinating life cycle and important ecological role. Their loud calls may be a nuisance to some, but they are a vital part of the natural world.
Cicadas Examples
- The sound of cicadas chirping in the trees filled the summer air.
- I marveled at the intricate wings of the cicadas as they flew around the garden.
- Cicadas are known for their distinctive mating calls that can be heard for miles.
- The cicadas emerged from their underground homes after 17 years to mate and lay eggs.
- Local folklore says that the appearance of cicadas is a sign of good luck.
- The children collected discarded cicada shells to use in their art projects.
- Cicadas are a valuable food source for birds and other animals in the ecosystem.
- The loud buzzing of the cicadas made it difficult to hear each other talk.
- I carefully avoided stepping on the cicadas as I walked through the grass.
- The sudden silence of the cicadas signaled the approach of a summer storm.