WHY CICADAS MAKE SOUND

When the summertime temperatures rise, a loud, piercing buzz fills the air in many parts of the world, often signaling the emergence of cicadas, large, winged insects known for their distinct and incessant chirping. But why do these creatures create such a racket, and what purpose does their distinctive sound serve?

Mating Calls and Territorial Displays

Primarily, cicadas produce sound as a means of communication during mating season. Male cicadas use their unique songs to attract potential mates. The females, in turn, are drawn to the loudest and most persistent singers, indicating a strong and healthy mate.

The males' calls also serve as a territorial display, deterring other males from encroaching on their chosen territory. By producing a loud and consistent sound, males can establish and maintain their mating grounds, reducing competition and increasing their chances of finding a mate.

Sound Production Mechanics

Cicadas create their characteristic sound through a highly specialized mechanism located on their abdomens, known as a tymbal. This organ consists of two membranes that are rapidly vibrated by muscles, producing a clicking sound. The tymbal is then amplified by a resonating chamber within the cicada's body, projecting the sound outward.

Cicada Songs: Complexity and Diversity

The songs produced by cicadas are remarkably complex and diverse, varying greatly among different species. Some cicadas produce simple, repetitive chirps, while others create intricate melodies with distinct patterns. Additionally, cicada songs can vary depending on the time of day, temperature, and even the presence of predators.

This remarkable acoustic diversity serves several purposes. For example, cicadas use different songs to attract mates, deter predators, and communicate danger to other cicadas. The variations in song complexity and structure also help to reduce hybridization between species, ensuring that each species maintains its unique identity.

Evolutionary Significance of Cicada Songs

The evolution of cicada songs is a fascinating example of adaptation and natural selection. Over millions of years, cicadas have refined their songs to become more effective in attracting mates, defending territories, and communicating with each other.

The loud, piercing nature of cicada songs has also played a significant role in their survival. Their songs can be heard over long distances, increasing the chances that a male cicada will attract a mate. Additionally, the sheer volume of cicada songs can overwhelm predators, making it difficult for them to locate and target individual cicadas.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Survival

The sound of cicadas, while often loud and intrusive, is a vital part of their life cycle and survival. Their unique songs serve as a complex form of communication, enabling them to find mates, defend territories, and communicate with each other.

Over time, cicadas have evolved their songs to become more effective and distinct, a testament to the power of natural selection and adaptation. As a result, these remarkable insects have survived for millions of years, continuing to fill the summer air with their unmistakable buzz.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why do cicadas sing so loudly?

Cicadas sing loudly to attract mates and deter rivals. Their songs can be heard over long distances, increasing their chances of finding a mate and securing a territory.

2. How do cicadas produce their sound?

Cicadas produce sound using a specialized organ called a tymbal, located on their abdomens. The tymbal consists of two membranes that are rapidly vibrated by muscles, producing a clicking sound that is amplified by a resonating chamber within their bodies.

3. Are all cicadas singers?

No, not all cicadas are singers. Only male cicadas produce sound, using their songs to attract mates and defend their territories. Female cicadas do not produce sound.

4. Can cicadas control their songs?

Cicadas can control the volume and pitch of their songs to some extent. They often adjust their songs depending on the temperature, time of day, and the presence of predators.

5. What is the purpose of cicada songs?

Cicada songs serve several purposes, including attracting mates, deterring rivals, and communicating danger to other cicadas. The complexity and diversity of cicada songs allow them to communicate effectively and maintain their species’ identity.