Variable cicada facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Variable cicada |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Kikihia
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| Species: |
muta
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| Synonyms | |
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The Kikihia muta, also known as the variable cicada, is a type of cicada. This insect is special because it is only found in New Zealand. A scientist named Johan Christian Fabricius first described this species in 1775.
Contents
About the Variable Cicada
Variable cicadas are known for their unique sounds. Like all cicadas, they use special body parts to make their loud songs. These songs are often heard during warm summer days. They help the cicadas find mates.
What Do They Look Like?
Variable cicadas have a body shape typical of most cicadas. They have strong, clear wings and large eyes. Their colors can vary, which is why they are called "variable" cicadas. This helps them blend into their surroundings.
Life Cycle of the Variable Cicada
The life cycle of the variable cicada is quite interesting. It takes about three years for them to grow from an egg to an adult. Most of this time is spent underground.
Underground Life
Cicada eggs hatch into tiny nymphs. These nymphs then burrow into the ground. They live underground for most of their lives. While there, they feed on the sap from plant roots. They grow by shedding their skin several times.
Emerging as Adults
After a few years, the nymphs dig their way out of the soil. They climb onto trees or plants. Here, they shed their skin one last time to become adult cicadas. The empty skin, called an exuvia, is often left behind.
Adult Life and Reproduction
Adult cicadas live for only a few weeks. During this short time, their main goal is to find a mate. The males sing loudly to attract females. After mating, the female lays her eggs in tree branches. Then, the adults die, and the cycle begins again.
Different Types of Variable Cicadas
Within the Kikihia muta species, there are two slightly different groups. These are called subspecies. They are very similar but have small differences, often in their appearance or where they live.
- Kikihia muta muta (Fabricius, 1775)
- Kikihia muta pallida (Hudson, 1950)
Images for kids
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A side view of the variable cicada
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A top-down view of the variable cicada
