Cicaden

The cicaden is an insect belonging to the order Hemiptera, commonly known as cicadas. They are characterized by their broad heads, eye ridges, and prominent compound eyes. Cicaden species are distributed worldwide, with the greatest diversity occurring in tropical and subtropical regions. They are best known for the loud, species‑specific calls produced by males, which are used to attract females during the breeding season. These acoustic displays function as a key element in reproductive isolation amongst sympatric species.

The life cycle of cicaden is remarkable for its extended developmental period underground as nymphs. Depending on the species, nymphs may live for several years awaiting the growing season, during which they excrete a protective cocoon of secretions. In some temperate species, cicaden reproduce at regular, multi‑year intervals—such as the periodical 17‑ or 13‑year cycles observed in North America—although most species complete an annual or biennial life cycle. Once emerged as adults, cicaden have a relatively short lifespan, generally only a few weeks to a couple of months. During this time they mate, lay eggs in tree or shrub stems, and then die, completing the cycle.

Ecologically, cicaden play important roles as both herbivores and prey. Their nymphal feeding on xylem sap can affect host plant vigor, and adult cicaden serve as a food source for a variety of insectivorous birds, mammals, and reptiles. The mass emergence of cicaden in certain species is also a key event influencing soil structure through the burrowing activity of nymphs, as well as nutrient cycling via the deposition of organic matter. Because of their conspicuous nature and the sounds they produce, cicaden have long fascinated natural scientists and cultural observers alike.