PERIODICAL CICADAE Meaning and
Definition
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Periodical cicadae, also known as periodical cicadas or Magicicada, refer to a group of insects belonging to the family Cicadidae, known for their remarkable life cycle and synchronized emergence. These cicadas are characterized by their large size, ranging from 2 to 5 centimeters in length, and distinctive black bodies with reddish-orange eyes.
What sets periodical cicadae apart from other cicadas is their exceptional developmental pattern. These insects spend most of their lives as nymphs, living underground and feeding on the sap of tree roots. However, after a prolonged period, which can last either 13 or 17 years depending on the species, these nymphs transform into winged adults and emerge from the ground en masse.
This synchronized emergence of periodical cicadas is a captivating phenomenon. Billions of cicadas emerge almost simultaneously, creating a spectacle that is both intriguing and deafening due to their distinct buzzing calls. These mass emergences can cause significant impacts on the ecosystem, affecting food chains and tree health due to the sheer quantity of cicadas and their feeding habits.
Periodical cicadae are mainly found in eastern North America, where they are organized into different broods based on their specific emergence cycles. Each brood is associated with a specific geographic region and has its own distinct periodical cicada species. The most well-known of these broods are Brood II and Brood X, which have garnered attention due to their extensive geographic range and large numbers.
In conclusion, periodical cicadae are a unique group of insects known for their synchronized emergence in large numbers after spending either 13 or 17 years as underground nymphs. Their remarkable life cycles and tremendous impacts on ecosystems have made them fascinating subjects for scientific study
Common Misspellings for PERIODICAL CICADAE
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Etymology of PERIODICAL CICADAE
The word "periodical cicadae" can be broken down into two main parts: "periodical" and "cicadae".
1. "Periodical" is derived from the Latin word "periodus", which means "a cycle or interval of time". It entered English in the early 17th century and refers to something that occurs or repeats at regular intervals or periods.
2. "Cicadae" comes from the Latin word "cicada", which refers to a type of insect known as a cicada. The Latin word was further derived from the Greek word "kikadas", which has the same meaning.
When combined, "periodical cicadae" indicates a type of cicada that emerges periodically or at regular intervals, typically every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species.
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