Cicada Biology and Behavior

Which of the following is a physical characteristic of cicadas?

• A long, slender body

• Small, hidden eyes

• Two pairs of transparent wings

• A segmented tail

Identify the parts of the insect's body.

a

b

c

d

e

f

g

h

Thorax

tymbal

Antennae

Wings

Abdomen

Legs

Head

Eyes

What do cicada nymphs primarily feed on while living underground?

• Leaves and flowers

• Other small insects

• Xylem fluid from tree roots

• Fungi and decaying matter

What is the process called when a cicada sheds its old exoskeleton to grow larger and emerge with fully formed wings?

• Metamorphosis

• Hibernation

• Molting

• Pupation

Which part of a male cicada's body is responsible for producing its distinct buzzing sound?

• Antennae

• Wings

• Tymbals

• Legs

What are the primary purposes of a male cicada's song?

• To communicate with predators and hide from them

• To attract mates and warn off rivals

• To navigate during flight and find food sources

• To regulate body temperature and stay cool

Are cicadas harmful to humans?

• Yes, they can deliver painful bites.

• Yes, their sting is venomous.

• No, they are harmless and do not bite or sting.

• Only if provoked, they can become aggressive.

What ecological roles do cicadas play while living underground as nymphs?

• They consume harmful soil bacteria.

• They aerate the soil and recycle nutrients.

• They build complex underground tunnels for other insects.

• They act as pollinators for underground plants.

How do cicadas differ from locusts in terms of their impact on plants?

• Cicadas are a type of grasshopper that damages crops, while locusts do not.

• Locusts are known to damage crops, whereas cicadas rarely cause serious harm to plants.

• Both cicadas and locusts are beneficial to plant growth.

• Cicadas primarily eat leaves, while locusts feed on roots.