Discover the Secret of Cicadas: how Do They Sing So Loud ?

Introduction

In the warm embrace of summer, a melody echoes through the air. The rhythm is as much a part of the season as sun-kissed skin and cool lemonade. Yes, we are speaking about the chant of cicadas, that distinctive sound that fills our ears and hearts every summer. But have you ever wondered how these tiny creatures can produce such powerful music ? How do they manage to sing so loud and why only in summer ? Today we will delve into this fascinating topic.

The Powerful Song of Cicadas Explained

Origins of Their Melodious Chorus

Cicadas serenade us throughout summer not just for our listening pleasure but because it serves an essential purpose – mating calls. Each species has its unique song, and each male uses his distinct tune to woo female cicadas during the mating season.

The Loudest Insect on Earth

Cicadas are renowned for being the most boisterous insect on the planet. This sonic prowess comes from special organs located within their abdomen, composed of two tymbals distorted by potent tymbalic muscles. They can emit two different types of sounds – one for attracting females from afar and another for charming them once nearby.

Before we further investigate this incredible mechanism, it’s important to understand why cicadas choose to sing only during specific seasons.

The Secret Mechanisms Behind Cicada Song

The Prerequisites: temperature and Seasons

To perform their love serenades effectively, cicadas require a temperature of at least 22°C (71°F). Consequently, they lend their voices from mid-June to mid-August in France when adult cicadas emerge after several years of living underground.

Amplification of Sound

The sound cicadas produce is amplified by the hollow abdomen of males, due to compression of organs towards the rear end by an air sac. This fascinating setup lends them their characteristic volume and resonance.

With the mechanics behind, let’s turn our attention to why these love songs are confined only within a specific season.

Why Cicadas Sing Only During Summer ?

Seasonal Timing

The cicada’s nuptial chant is seen as a symbol of summer warmth and carefree living in areas like Provence where they thrive. However, these insects go silent when it rains or the temperature cools down.

As we understand why cicadas pipe up during hot summer months, let’s address the question if their traditional chorus is under threat.

The Alleged Disappearance of Cicada Song: fact or Myth ?

The Threats They Face

While these creatures have been serenading us for centuries, changes in climate and urbanization pose a significant threat to their existence. The loss of natural habitat coupled with increasing pollution has already started affecting the population and thus the song of some species.

Finally, after decoding secrets and addressing looming threats, let’s retrace our journey.

Closing Thoughts

We’ve taken you on a journey into the world of cicadas – from understanding how they create their powerful symphony to why it can only be heard during certain seasons. We unveiled how temperature plays a crucial role in triggering their melodies and how each male vies for female attention with his unique tune. Finally, we also discussed potential threats that could silence their music forever. Remember, every time you hear their melody next summer, it’s not just a song but a call of life and survival.