Cicada Emergence and Lifecycle Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the main reason cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?

  • To avoid predators that have shorter lifespans. (correct)
  • To maximize reproduction in urban areas.
  • To synchronize with other insect life cycles.
  • To avoid climate changes that affect their habitat.

    • How often do the two broods of cicadas overlap in the same state?

  • In Maryland and Alabama.
  • Only in Illinois and Iowa. (correct)
  • In all states from Oklahoma to Maryland.
  • In all US states where they emerge.

    • What is the peak period for the cicada population expected to occur?

  • Mid-April to late April.
  • Late June to early July.
  • Throughout the entire summer.
  • Starting mid-May for two-to-three weeks. (correct)

    • Why are young trees more susceptible to damages from cicadas than mature trees?

    <p>Their food supply can be easily severed by egg-laying incisions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the decibel level of the male cicadas' mating call?

    <p>90 decibels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When do cicada eggs typically hatch after being laid?

    <p>4-6 weeks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a unique characteristic of the cicada's lifecycle regarding its lifespan underground?

    <p>They live underground for 13 or 17 years rejuvenating soil. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can experts suggest to protect young trees from cicadas?

    <p>Cover them with nets during the cicada emergence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Periodical Cicadas

    A group of insects that emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years to reproduce and die shortly after.

    Cicadas as a Food Source

    These insects are a source of food for a variety of animals, and their bodies contribute nitrogen to help trees grow.

    Prime Number Survival Strategy

    Cicadas have a unique evolutionary strategy to avoid predators by emerging on a prime number cycle.

    Cicada Drone

    The loud, high-pitched sound made by male cicadas to attract females.

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    Cicada Egg Laying

    Female cicadas make small cuts in branches to lay their eggs, potentially harming young trees.

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    Cicada Peak Emergence

    The time when the cicadas reach their maximum population density, typically lasting for two to three weeks.

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    Cicada Life Cycle

    The process of cicada eggs hatching and the emergence of a new generation of cicadas, which then burrow underground for the next 13 or 17 years.

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    Double Brood Emergence

    The overlapping emergence of two different broods of cicadas, occurring in certain states.,

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    Study Notes

    Cicada Brood Emergence

    • Sixteen US states are experiencing a rare simultaneous emergence of two cicada broods: Brood XIX (13-year cycle) and Brood XIII (17-year cycle).
    • This event hasn't happened in 221 years, and the next occurrence will be in 2245.
    • Emergence peak is expected mid-May, lasting two to three weeks.
    • Overlap is expected in Illinois and Iowa, with close proximity in many other states.

    Cicada Lifecycle and Behavior

    • Cicadas spend most of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots.
    • They emerge every 13 or 17 years to reproduce and die soon after.
    • Their bodies provide a food source for animals and nitrogen for trees.
    • The emergence cycles are prime numbers (13 and 17) to avoid predators with 2, 4, or 8-year cycles.
    • Females lay eggs in young twigs and vines, causing damage but not to mature trees.
    • Eggs hatch in 4–6 weeks, and the new generation burrows into the ground to repeat the cycle.

    Cicada Characteristics and Impacts

    • Cicadas are harmless to humans.
    • Swarms can be a nuisance due to their numbers and the noise of males (up to 90 decibels).
    • Males attract females with high-pitched drones and the insects can severely damage young fruit or nursery trees by laying eggs.
    • Covering young trees with nets is advised to protect them.

    Personal Observations (Note: This section presents an opinion, not fact)

    • The author found cicadas harmless and even fun to watch.
    • They observed that cicadas do not bite.
    • The author dared to put cicadas on their head and survived.
    • Some people think they aren't cute due to their behavior, but this is incorrect.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on the fascinating emergence of cicadas, focusing on the simultaneous appearance of Brood XIX and Brood XIII. Learn about their lifecycle, behavior, and ecological impacts. Discover the significance of their prime-numbered cycles and how this affects their survival.

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