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Questions and Answers
What is the primary reason researchers believe cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years?
When did the last occurrence of the simultaneous emergence of Brood XIX and Brood XIII happen?
Which of the following states is not mentioned as preparing for the cicada emergence?
What characteristic is associated with periodical cicadas indicating their lifecycle?
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What is the expected timeline for the peak emergence of cicadas?
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What is the primary reason cicadas can be considered a nuisance for humans?
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Which statement about cicada egg-laying is true?
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What happens to adult cicadas after they lay their eggs?
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How long does the development period for a new generation of cicadas last?
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What is a recommended method to protect young trees during cicada swarms?
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Study Notes
Cicada Emergence
- Two cicada broods, Brood XIX and Brood XIII, are emerging simultaneously in 16 US states.
- Brood XIX emerges every 13 years and Brood XIII every 17 years.
- The last time the two broods overlapped was in 1803, with the next occurrence expected in 2245.
- Peak emergence is anticipated in the two to three weeks following mid-May.
- The overlap will be most pronounced in Illinois and Iowa.
Periodical Cicadas
- Periodical cicadas live underground for most of their lives, feeding on tree roots.
- They are black, shrimp-sized insects with red, beady eyes.
- They emerge every 13 or 17 years to reproduce and die shortly after.
Cicada Emergence Pattern
- The 13 or 17-year emergence cycle is theorized to be a defense mechanism against predators.
- The prime number cycle makes the cicadas' emergence less predictable for predators with shorter lifespans.
Cicada Impact
- Cicadas are not dangerous to humans.
- They can be a nuisance due to their loud mating calls, which reach 90 decibels.
- Female cicadas damage young trees by laying eggs on slender twigs or vines, potentially severing the food supply and causing wilting.
- Young fruit trees and nursery trees are particularly vulnerable.
Cicada Life Cycle
- Adult cicadas die after laying their eggs.
- Dead cicadas contribute nitrogen to plant growth.
- Eggs hatch 4-6 weeks after being laid, and the new generation burrows underground to begin a 13 or 17-year development cycle.
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Description
Explore the fascinating life cycle and emergence patterns of periodical cicadas, particularly Brood XIX and Brood XIII. Learn about their unique 13 and 17-year cycles, their behavior, and the ecological impacts they have when they emerge. Understand the significance of their synchronized emergence and how it affects both the cicadas and their environment.
