Influence of altitude, habitat and microhabitat on thermal adaptation of cicadas from Southwest Texas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae)

The thermal responses of 12 cicada species inhabiting Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA are investigated to determine the influence of altitude, habitat and microhabitat. The park provides an opportunity to analyze the thermal responses in animals from a variety of habitats and altitudinal gradients within a limited geographic range. The data suggest that thermal responses of cicadas are adaptations to their specific habitats. No thermal responses are significantly correlated with body size. The maximum voluntary tolerance temperature (an upper behavioral thermoregulatory point) and heat torpor temperatures show significant correlations with altitude. Variability in thermal responses can also be related to the characteristics of the microhabitat selected or the behavioral pattern of a species.

► We examine the influences of altitude, habitat and microhabitat on thermal responses. ► Thermal responses of cicadas appear to be adaptations to their specific habitats. ► Thermal responses do not significantly correlate with body size. ► Maximum voluntary tolerance and heat torpor temperatures correlate with altitude. ► Microhabitat selection can also influence thermal response variability.