The Fascinating Life Cycle of Cicadas

What is the life cycle of cicadas?

The Cicadoidea superfamily of insects in the Hemiptera order includes the cicadas. Together with other smaller jumping insects like leafhoppers and froghoppers, they make up the suborder Auchenorrhyncha.

Answer:

The life cycle of cicadas is truly remarkable and unique. Let's explore it further!

Cicadas have a fascinating life cycle that spans several years, making them one of the most intriguing insect species. These creatures undergo metamorphosis, transitioning through different stages of development before reaching maturity.

Once a female cicada lays her eggs in the soil, they hatch and the nymphs drop to the ground. The nymphs then burrow into the soil where they feed on tree roots for an extended period of time, sometimes up to 17 years depending on the species.

After completing their underground development, the nymphs emerge from the soil as adults, shedding their exoskeletons and revealing their wings. The adult cicadas then spend a short period of time mating and laying eggs before completing their life cycle.

This life cycle of cicadas is crucial for the ecosystem, providing nutrients to the soil and serving as a food source for various predators. It also plays a significant role in supporting the reproduction of other species that coincide with the appearance of cicadas.