Cicada! ตัวครึ่งกลางคืนที่ขัดตาทัพด้วยเสียงร้องอันทรงพลัง

Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their unique life cycle and loud, buzzing calls. These creatures belong to the order Hemiptera, alongside aphids, leafhoppers, and stink bugs. What sets cicadas apart is their extended period of development underground as nymphs, often lasting several years. They emerge en masse in synchronized events, creating a symphony of sound that can be heard for miles.
ชีวิตใต้ดิน: รอคอยวันขึ้นสู่ผิวโลก
Cicada nymphs spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots and sap. This subterranean phase can last anywhere from 2 to 17 years depending on the species. During this time, they undergo a series of molts, gradually increasing in size. They navigate through the soil using specialized forelegs, digging tunnels and seeking out suitable roots for nourishment.
Imagine being stuck underground for over a decade! It’s a testament to cicada nymphs’ resilience and adaptability. They endure darkness, fluctuating temperatures, and limited food resources, all while patiently waiting for the signal to emerge.
การผุดขึ้นมาสู่โลก: การแสดงคอนเสิร์ตของธรรมชาติ
When the time is right, usually triggered by soil temperature or changes in photoperiod (day length), cicada nymphs dig their way to the surface. This emergence often coincides with warm summer months.
The sight of thousands of cicadas crawling out of the ground and climbing trees is a spectacle in itself. But it’s their chorus that truly captures attention. Male cicadas have specialized structures called “tymbals” located on their abdomens, which vibrate rapidly to produce the distinctive buzzing sound.
This symphony serves several purposes. It helps attract mates, deter rivals, and communicate within their own species. The intensity of the cicada chorus can be deafening, especially during peak mating season.
ชีวิตในฐานะตัวเต็มวัย: สืบพันธุ์และสิ้นสุดวงจร
Adult cicadas have a short lifespan, typically lasting only a few weeks to a month. During this time, they focus on finding mates and reproducing. Females lay their eggs in tree bark or branches, where the nymphs will hatch and begin their underground journey anew.
Cicadas exhibit fascinating diversity in appearance and behavior. Some species are brightly colored with intricate patterns, while others are more drab. Their size also varies considerably, ranging from a few millimeters to over 5 centimeters in length.
ความสำคัญทางนิเวศวิทยา: บทบาทของ cicada ในระบบนิเว่น
Cicadas play an important role in forest ecosystems. They serve as a food source for birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Their burrowing activities also help aerate the soil and contribute to nutrient cycling.
Cicada emergence events can have a significant impact on local wildlife populations. Predators often flock to areas with high cicada densities, creating a temporary feast.
ตัวอย่าง cicada พบในประเทศไทย:
ชื่อสามัญ (ภาษาอังกฤษ) | ชื่อวิทยาศาสตร์ |
---|---|
Red-eyed cicada | Megaplatygaster maculata |
Tropical cicada | Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata |
สรุป:
Cicadas are truly remarkable creatures with a life cycle unlike any other. Their ability to survive underground for years, emerge in synchrony, and produce such powerful sounds makes them a captivating subject of study. Next time you hear the buzzing symphony of cicadas, take a moment to appreciate the intricate web of nature that surrounds us.