Cicadas vs. Flies

Attribute	Cicadas	Flies
Order	Hemiptera	Diptera
Wings	Two pairs	One pair
Lifespan	2-17 years	1-2 months
Sound production	Male cicadas produce loud buzzing sounds	Some flies produce buzzing sounds
Feeding habits	Feed on plant sap	Feed on various organic matter

Physical Characteristics

Cicadas and flies are both insects, but they have distinct physical characteristics that set them apart. Cicadas are known for their large size, with some species reaching up to 2 inches in length. They have transparent wings that are held roof-like over their bodies when at rest. In contrast, flies are typically much smaller in size, with most species measuring less than an inch long. Flies have two wings and a pair of halteres, which are small knobbed structures that help with balance during flight.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of cicadas and flies also differs significantly. Cicadas have a unique life cycle that can last anywhere from 2 to 17 years, depending on the species. They spend the majority of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots before emerging as adults to mate and lay eggs. Flies, on the other hand, have a much shorter life cycle, typically completing their life cycle in a matter of weeks. Flies undergo complete metamorphosis, starting as eggs, then developing into larvae (maggots), pupae, and finally emerging as adults.

Behavior

When it comes to behavior, cicadas and flies exhibit different habits. Cicadas are known for their loud buzzing calls, which males produce to attract females for mating. These calls can reach up to 120 decibels, making them one of the loudest insects in the world. Cicadas are also known for their synchronized mass emergences, where thousands of individuals emerge from the ground at the same time. Flies, on the other hand, are more solitary insects that do not exhibit synchronized emergences. They are known for their rapid flight and ability to quickly evade predators.

Diet

Cicadas and flies have different diets that reflect their respective lifestyles. Cicadas are primarily herbivores, feeding on tree sap as nymphs and plant fluids as adults. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract nutrients from plants. Flies, on the other hand, have a more varied diet that includes both plant and animal matter. Some flies are herbivores, feeding on nectar and pollen, while others are carnivores, feeding on decaying organic matter or even other insects. Flies are also known for their role as pollinators and decomposers in the ecosystem.

Ecological Impact

Both cicadas and flies play important roles in their respective ecosystems, but their impact differs. Cicadas are considered keystone species in some ecosystems, as their mass emergences can have significant effects on plant growth and nutrient cycling. The holes left behind by cicada nymphs can also aerate the soil and promote tree health. Flies, on the other hand, are important pollinators for many plant species and play a crucial role in decomposition. Flies help break down organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting the growth of new plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cicadas and flies are both fascinating insects with unique attributes that make them distinct from one another. While cicadas are known for their large size, long life cycles, and loud calls, flies are smaller in size, have shorter life cycles, and exhibit a wider range of behaviors and diets. Both insects play important roles in their ecosystems, with cicadas influencing plant growth and nutrient cycling, and flies contributing to pollination and decomposition. Understanding the differences between cicadas and flies can help us appreciate the diversity and complexity of the insect world.