Abstract
Measurements of body temperature in the field demonstrate that Cicada orni Linnaeus regulates body temperature through behavioral mechanisms. Behavior is used to regulate body temperature to a range necessary for calling. As predicted, results showed a general decrease of echeme duration and an increase in inter-echeme interval with rising body temperature. However, no statisti- cally significant correlations of body temperature for any of the variables studied were found, giving evidence that there is more variability in call parameters between individuals than any effect of body temperature.
Highlights
Cicada orni Linnaeus, 1758 (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) is one of the most abundant and common cicadas throughout the Mediterranean area
Cicadas are relatively large in comparison to most acoustic insects and can thermoregulate in an effort to minimize any influence of temperature on their mating signal (Sanborn, 2002)
The statistical difference between mean Tb and mean Ta and mean Tp and the regression analysis suggest that C. orni actively thermoregulates
Summary
Cicada orni Linnaeus, 1758 (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) is one of the most abundant and common cicadas throughout the Mediterranean area. The calling song is the most common type of acoustic signal and it is involved in mate attraction, having an important role in pair formation and in species recognition (Claridge, 1985; Villet, 1992). Acoustic activity is dependent on intrinsic and environmental factors. The study of temperature influences on acoustic insects has a long history (see review in Sanborn, 2005). Temperature influences biological reactions at the chemical level so the ability of an animal to coordinate acoustic activity is dependent on temperature. Cicadas are relatively large in comparison to most acoustic insects and can thermoregulate in an effort to minimize any influence of temperature on their mating signal (Sanborn, 2002). There are multiple studies that show temperature may or may not influence the acoustic signals of cicadas, depending on species
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
