The Brood X cicadas (Magicicada septendecim) are making their arrival every 17 years to many parts of the Eastern United States, including urban and suburban areas. These are the same cicadas that were last seen in 2004. These periodical cicadas are often mistaken as an annual swarm of cicadas due to the loud noise they make emerging from the ground. This is, however, a completely natural phenomenon, and it is all part of the 17-year cycle of Brood X cicadas. This article will discuss the arrival of the Brood X cicadas, and the steps you can take to prepare for their arrival.
The Life Cycle of Brood X Cicadas
What is the life cycle of a Brood X cicada?
The life cycle of a Brood X cicada is simple and typically follows a 17-year life cycle. The surface of the earth is the perfect habitat for the cicadas, and it’s here that the female cicada will lay her eggs. From these eggs, the next generation of cicadas will emerge and begin the 17-year cycle all over again.
How long do they live?
Adult Brood X cicadas typically only live a few weeks post-emergence, but their eggs will remain dormant in the ground for a full 17-year cycle. The majority of their lives are spent as a nymph underground, feeding on xylem sap from tree roots. The nymphal stage for a Brood X cicada can last for up to 17 years before the adult emerges from the ground to mate.
Preparing for the Arrival of Brood X Cicadas
What can people do to prepare for the coming of the Brood X cicadas?
The most important thing people can do to prepare for the arrival of the Brood X cicadas is to educate themselves on the species and their life cycle. Understanding how the cicadas live and the importance of their presence in the environment can help you to better appreciate their presence and take the necessary steps to protect your outdoor spaces. Additionally, it is important to remember that the cicadas can be noisy and can disrupt outdoor activities such as BBQs or outdoor concerts. Taking steps to reduce the noise, such as closing windows and doors to contain their noise, can help to reduce the disruption.
What impact could Brood X have on the environment?
The presence of Brood X in the environment is beneficial for the eco-system and for the flora in the area. The cicada’s eggs provide a food source for birds, animals, and other insects. Their arrival also helps to improve soil quality by spacing out the egg-laying activity. This can help reduce soil compaction, allowing for water and nutrients to be more easily absorbed by the surrounding plants.
People Also Ask
What is the meaning of Brood X?
Brood X is the name of an aggregation of periodical cicadas in the eastern United States that emerges in the same region every 17 years.
What states will Brood X Cicadas be appearing?
Brood X cicadas are expected to emerge in Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia.
Can cicadas cause damage?
The presence of Brood X cicadas can be disruptive due to the loud noise they make, but they are not thought to cause significant damage to plants, homes and other outdoor surfaces.
When do cicadas die off?
The lifespan of adult Brood X cicadas is typically between 4-6 weeks post-emergence, after which they mate and lay eggs before they die off.
Can you eat cicadas?
Yes, cicadas are edible and their taste is similar to that of grilled shrimp. They can be enjoyed by humans and animals alike.
Final Words
The Brood X cicadas will soon be upon many parts of the Eastern United States. Understanding the life cycle of a Brood X cicada, preparing for their arrival and learning to appreciate the various positive impacts they have on the environment are all essential steps in embracing the presence of Brood X cicadas.