diapause dia-pause \ˈdī-ə-ˌpȯz\
a diapause for an animal represents a period of physiologically enforced dormancy between periods of activity. (Mirriam-Webster)
Diapause of the cicada[]
The cicada undergoes long periods of diapause. The cicada's diapause occurs underground during its larval and pupa stage. These stages take up to 17 years before the insect appears above the ground and becomes active again. (Encylopedia Brittanica)
Sources[]
Diapause. (Def 1). n.d. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Retrieved October 16, 2013 from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diapause
Dormancy. n.d. Online Encyclopedia Brittanica. Retrieved October 16, 2013. from http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/169514/dormancy/48525/Invertebrates