TIBICENINAE Meaning and
Definition
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Tibiceninae is a taxonomic subfamily of insects belonging to the family Cicadidae, commonly known as cicadas. Cicadas are large, noisy insects that are best known for their distinctive buzzing or whirring sounds produced by the adult males in order to attract females for mating purposes.
The subfamily Tibiceninae includes over 200 species of cicadas distributed mainly across the Americas and Eurasia. These insects are characterized by their robust body structure and membranous, transparent wings with intricate venation patterns. They typically have a broad head, elongated antennae, and strong mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking plant sap.
Tibiceninae cicadas are known for their lengthy life cycle, which can span several years. The larvae or nymphs develop underground and feed on the sap from plant roots. Once matured, they emerge as adults and spend a short period of time above ground, primarily for reproductive purposes. The males produce their characteristic sounds by vibrating specialized membranes on the abdomen, which amplifies their calls. These loud and rhythmic calls play a significant role in attracting mates and establishing territories.
Tibiceninae cicadas are important components of ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling, plant pollination, and as a food source for predators. They have also fascinated humans throughout history, featuring prominently in folklore, art, and cultural beliefs across many regions.
Etymology of TIBICENINAE
The word "tibiceninae" comes from Latin.
- "Tibicen" is derived from "tibia", which means "pipe" or "flute". In ancient Rome, a "tibicen" was a musician who played the tibia or other similar wind instruments.
- The suffix "-inae" is used to indicate a subfamily in scientific classification. It is commonly used in taxonomy to denote a smaller group within a family.
