Add Row 
Add 
The Cicadas Are Coming Back: What You Need to Know
This spring, residents across the eastern United States can expect a remarkable spectacle as billions of cicadas from Brood XIV emerge from their 17-year underground slumber. From Tennessee to Georgia and extending all the way to Massachusetts, cicadas will soon invade neighborhoods in a thrumming display of life, mating, and, ultimately, death.
Understanding Cicada Life Cycles
These fascinating periodical cicadas are not just regular insects; they’re a unique phenomenon. Unlike many bugs that surface annually, cicadas from Brood XIV follow a precise 17-year cycle. This brood first made its debut way back in 1634, as noted by colonists in the Plymouth colony, proving that these insects have been part of American life for centuries.
Once they emerge, cicadas undergo a life-changing transformation. They molt out of their nymph exoskeletons, develop wings, and kick off their loud mating calls in a bid to attract partners. This vibrant mating ritual is short-lived, as they will mate, lay eggs, and die shortly thereafter. Their short life above ground highlights both the intense nature of their lifecycle and their role in the ecosystem.
An Ecosystem on Display
Brood XIV cicadas serve a crucial role in local ecosystems despite their brief involvement in the food web. As they tunnel through the soil during their nymph phase, they help aerate the ground. Their emergence is not something to fear; scientists emphasize that cicadas do not swarm like bees and pose no threat to pets or humans. In fact, they contribute positively by providing nitrogen and other nutrients back to the soil when they decompose.
Health Risks — Busting Myths about Cicadas
Despite rising cicada populations, the claims surrounding health risks tied to these insects often come from misconceptions. Experts clarify that while pediatric journals occasionally report on cicada-related incidents, these events typically involve reckless behavior. For example, injuries reported usually stem from a motorcycle accident caused by a cicada striking someone in the eye, rather than an attack by the insect itself.
Engaging with Science: Cicada Safari App
If you wish to participate in cicada research during this exciting period, consider downloading the Cicada Safari app. By uploading pictures of any cicadas you encounter, you can aid scientists in tracking their populations. Gene Kritsky, an entomologist who leads this effort, notes he received 128,000 photos last emergence. The app offers a unique chance for individuals to get involved in citizen science, contributing to important entomological studies.
The Unique Intricacies of Cicada Mating
One of the most eyebrow-raising pieces of news about cicadas is their encounter with the parasitic fungus, Massospora cicadina. This fungus invades their bodies and alters their behavior drastically. It can hijack the cicada’s mating instincts, leading them to mate even as their bodies fail, all to spread spores. It may seem eerie, but it showcases the complexities of life and death in nature, embodying the concept of "survival of the fittest" in a rather shocking manner.
Conclusion
As you prepare for Brood XIV's return, keep in mind that these cicadas are not just a natural curiosity; they enrich the ecosystem. Their presence signifies a unique rhythm of nature, informing us about ecological cycles, biodiversity, and the need for awareness in our environment. While they may be a nuisance to some, they also offer rich educational opportunities, a chance for community involvement, and a reminder of the wonders of nature. So enjoy this fleeting spectacle, and engage with it through the Cicada Safari app!
Write A Comment