cicada cases

Hollow insect shells

The hollow exoskeletons left behind when cicadas molt, often found clinging to tree bark or other surfaces.

These translucent shells retain the insect's exact shape—legs, eyes, and all—after the adult emerges through a split in the back.

Children collect them as curiosities: We found dozens of cicada cases on the oak tree.

Related

shed · metamorphosis · hollows · exoskeleton · nymph · instar · papery · split · brittle · impermanence · left behind · summers · chitin · spiritual renewal · folklore · Japanese haiku · Japanese aesthetics · empty

Opposites
developmental stage

cicada casesimago

Insect's final form

living vs. shed/abandoned remains

cicada casesliving organisms

exterior husk vs. interior organism

cicada casessoft tissue

Non-rigid body structures

Family

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Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G