Cicada vs. Fly

Attribute	Cicada	Fly
Order	Hemiptera	Diptera
Wings	Two pairs	One pair
Lifespan	2-17 years	1-2 months
Sound production	Male cicadas produce loud buzzing sounds	Flies do not produce sounds
Feeding habits	Feed on plant sap	Feed on various organic matter

Physical Attributes

Cicadas and flies are both insects, but they have distinct physical attributes that set them apart. Cicadas are known for their large size, with some species reaching up to 2 inches in length. They have prominent eyes and transparent wings that are held roof-like over their bodies. In contrast, flies are typically much smaller in size, with most species measuring only a few millimeters long. Flies have large compound eyes and two wings that are used for flight.

Habitat and Distribution

Cicadas are found all over the world, with the majority of species living in tropical regions. They are known for their loud buzzing calls, which are produced by vibrating membranes on their abdomens. Cicadas spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, emerging only to mate and lay eggs. Flies, on the other hand, are found in almost every habitat on Earth, from deserts to forests to urban areas. They are known for their ability to quickly adapt to new environments and their role as pollinators and decomposers.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of cicadas is unique among insects. They spend the majority of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. After several years, depending on the species, they emerge from the ground as adults, shed their exoskeletons, and mate. The female cicadas then lay their eggs in tree branches, and the cycle begins again. Flies, on the other hand, have a much shorter life cycle. They go through a complete metamorphosis, starting as eggs, then larvae (such as maggots), pupae, and finally adults. Flies can reproduce quickly, with some species laying hundreds of eggs at a time.

Feeding Habits

Cicadas are primarily herbivores, feeding on tree sap and plant fluids. They use their piercing mouthparts to extract nutrients from plants, which can sometimes cause damage to crops and trees. Some species of cicadas are known to have symbiotic relationships with bacteria that help them digest plant sap. Flies, on the other hand, have a wide range of feeding habits. Some species are herbivores, feeding on nectar and pollen, while others are carnivores, feeding on other insects or even blood. Flies are important pollinators and also play a crucial role in decomposition.

Behavior

Cicadas are known for their loud buzzing calls, which are produced by vibrating membranes on their abdomens. These calls are used to attract mates and establish territory. Male cicadas are the ones that produce the calls, while females are typically silent. Cicadas are also known for their synchronized emergences, with large groups of individuals emerging from the ground at the same time. Flies, on the other hand, are known for their agility and speed. They are able to quickly evade predators and are skilled at maneuvering in the air. Flies are also known for their ability to transmit diseases, making them a nuisance to humans and animals.

Ecological Importance

Both cicadas and flies play important roles in their respective ecosystems. Cicadas are important pollinators of trees and plants, helping to ensure the reproduction of many species. They also serve as a food source for birds, mammals, and other insects. Flies are crucial for decomposition, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. They also play a role in pollination and are important food sources for many animals. Despite their differences, both cicadas and flies are essential components of healthy ecosystems.