The Evolutionary Journey of Cicadas
Today, cicadas are among the most ubiquitous insects on the planet. With thousands of species found across various ecosystems, some cicada populations emerge in astounding numbers, sometimes by the trillions. However, during the late Jurassic Period, these remarkable insects were not nearly as plentiful. The cicadas of that era were significantly bulkier than modern varieties, boasting wingspans that could rival those of contemporary hummingbirds, yet their population was relatively sparse.
During this time, cicadas faced a formidable new predator: early birds. These avian creatures, equipped with feathery wings, sharp claws, and formidable beaks, presented a serious threat to the cicada population. In response to this predation, cicadas underwent an evolutionary transformation, developing sleeker bodies and more powerful wings. This fascinating evolutionary arms race is detailed in a study published in the journal Science Advances on Friday.
Dr. Chunpeng Xu, a scientist at the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology in China and the lead author of the study, describes this dynamic between predator and prey as an “air race.” He and his team argue that this conflict ultimately contributed to the diversification of ancient cicadas.
According to Dr. Xu, “The rise of early birds significantly influenced the aerial ecosystem during the late Mesozoic era, particularly impacting the evolution of flying insects.” To delve deeper into this evolutionary narrative, Dr. Xu’s team analyzed ancient cicadas belonging to the group known as palaeontinidae. These fascinating insects, which bore a striking resemblance to moths but with shrunken heads, first appeared during the middle Triassic Period and thrived for roughly 160 million years into the Cretaceous Period.
Like their modern counterparts, these robust palaeontinidae cicadas inhabited trees and fed on the sap of plants, showcasing an evolutionary lineage that has persisted through eons.