Trillions of Cicadas Set to Invade Eastern US After 221 Years: Scientists Warn
Trillions of Cicadas To Invade Eastern US After 221 Years
Broods of Periodical Cicadas Emerge for a Once-in-221-Years Event
In April, two large broods of periodical cicadas are set to emerge from the ground around the US for a massive mating frenzy. This extraordinary event marks the first time in 221 years that Brood XIII and XIX have emerged together from their underground dwellings.
The Rare Co-Emergence of Periodical Cicada Broods
“These billions, even trillions, of cicadas will simultaneously emerge across 17 states,” as Chris Simon, UConn’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology professor, stated in an interview with Live Science. These remarkable periodical cicada broods, living underground for 17 and 13 years respectively, will now unite for a historic event that won’t repeat until the year 2244.
Cicadas: Not Your Average Insects
Periodical cicada broods are unique to Eastern North America and tend to surface in substantial numbers. Once the nymphs hatch, they feed on root sap underground until it’s time for their grand mating season. This cacophonous display, lasting for weeks, is a sight to behold, with noisy and chaotic behavior defining the entire event.
The Cicada Mating Ritual: A Noisy Affair
During the emergence period, the males will climb trees and emit loud noises to attract females, who will reciprocate with distinctive clicking sounds signaling the onset of mating. Subsequently, the females will lay eggs, paving the way for a new generation of cicadas to grace the earth.
The Spectacle of Cicada Emergence
In the initial stage, witnesses will observe cicadas perched on vegetation post-molting, around the early morning hours. As they climb trees and engage in their mating rituals, the atmosphere will be filled with their distinct sounds, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.
Cicadas: Mating, Laying Eggs, and Renewal
As the mating season progresses, females will lay their eggs, leading to the birth of a new cohort of cicadas the following day. Despite the massive numbers, these broods are unlikely to reappear in the same locations, except for a specific woodland area in Springfield, Illinois.
Understanding the Cicada Life Cycle
Cicadas live out their life cycles two to six weeks, where many will perish after reproducing or during the emergence process. By the third week, a significant number of cicadas will be found high in trees, having laid their eggs, which will eventually fall to lower ground.
Cicadas: Nature’s Way of Life and Death
While emerging, cicadas face risks like predation and accidental death by other cicadas. However, some will survive to mate and lay eggs, perpetuating the cycle of life for these fascinating insects.
Conclusion
This rare phenomenon of co-emergence between the 13-year and 17-year cicada broods remains a marvel of nature, occurring once every 221 years due to the unique prime number cycles of these creatures. The upcoming event promises to be a spectacular showcase of nature’s wonders, offering a rare glimpse into the intricacies of cicada life cycles.