What’s the difference between locusts and cicadas? This question often arises when people encounter these two insects, which share some similarities but also have distinct characteristics. In this article, we will explore the differences between locusts and cicadas, highlighting their physical appearance, lifecycle, and impact on the environment.
Cicadas and locusts are both insects that belong to the order Hemiptera, which also includes other insects like aphids and leafhoppers. However, they belong to different families within this order. Cicadas are part of the family Cicadidae, while locusts are part of the family Acrididae.
Physical Appearance:
Cicadas are typically large, with a body length ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches. They have a distinctive exoskeleton with a greenish color, which can vary depending on the species. Cicadas have a unique feature called a tympanum, a membrane that amplifies their sound, allowing them to produce one of the loudest insect sounds in the world.
On the other hand, locusts are generally smaller than cicadas, with a body length ranging from 0.6 to 2 inches. They have a brownish or greenish color and a more slender body. Locusts have a pair of antennae that are longer than their bodies, which they use to detect vibrations in the soil and air.
Lifecycle:
The lifecycle of cicadas and locusts also differs significantly. Cicadas have a relatively short lifecycle, with most species completing their lifecycle in one to two years. The majority of cicadas spend the majority of their lives as nymphs, living underground and feeding on plant roots. Once they reach adulthood, they emerge from the ground, mate, and lay eggs on tree branches before dying.
Locusts, on the other hand, have a longer lifecycle, with some species taking up to five years to complete their lifecycle. Like cicadas, locusts spend most of their lives as nymphs, living underground and feeding on plant roots. However, once they reach adulthood, locusts can undergo a remarkable transformation called the “plague phase,” during which they form swarms and migrate in search of food, causing significant damage to crops and vegetation.
Impact on the Environment:
Cicadas generally do not cause significant damage to crops or vegetation. Their feeding habits are primarily focused on plant roots, and they do not have the potential to cause widespread destruction like locusts. However, the loud sounds produced by cicadas can be a nuisance to some people.
Locusts, on the other hand, can cause significant damage to crops and vegetation when they form swarms. Their voracious appetite for plant material can lead to crop failures and economic losses for farmers. In some cases, locust plagues have been known to cause famine and hardship for entire regions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while cicadas and locusts are both insects belonging to the order Hemiptera, they have distinct differences in their physical appearance, lifecycle, and impact on the environment. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate the unique characteristics of each insect and their roles in the natural world.
