Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main reason cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?
What is the main reason cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?
How often do the two broods of cicadas overlap in the same state?
How often do the two broods of cicadas overlap in the same state?
What is the peak period for the cicada population expected to occur?
What is the peak period for the cicada population expected to occur?
Why are young trees more susceptible to damages from cicadas than mature trees?
Why are young trees more susceptible to damages from cicadas than mature trees?
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What is the decibel level of the male cicadas' mating call?
What is the decibel level of the male cicadas' mating call?
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When do cicada eggs typically hatch after being laid?
When do cicada eggs typically hatch after being laid?
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What is a unique characteristic of the cicada's lifecycle regarding its lifespan underground?
What is a unique characteristic of the cicada's lifecycle regarding its lifespan underground?
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What can experts suggest to protect young trees from cicadas?
What can experts suggest to protect young trees from cicadas?
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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.
