Brood XIV Cicadas Swarm Ohio and Neighboring States After 17-Year Hiatus
Millions of Brood XIV cicadas are emerging across a dozen states, including Ohio, marking their first appearance in 17 years.Entomologists are celebrating this natural phenomenon, anticipating opportunities to study these insects.
The Return of the 17-Year Cicadas
After nearly two decades underground, Brood XIV cicadas are making their grand entrance. This rare event provides a unique chance to witness a natural phenomenon that occurs only once every 17 years.The emergence, signaling the start of their reproduction cycle, has scientists and nature enthusiasts alike buzzing with excitement.
Dr. Mike Bentley, an entomologist, likened the event to “going to Disney World”. He emphasized the remarkable nature of witnessing such a large-scale insect emergence,highlighting the unique timing mechanism that governs their life cycle.
Why This Cicada Emergence Is Significant
Cicadas, known for their synchronized life cycles, emerge en masse as a survival strategy. This overwhelming strategy helps ensure the survival of the species. Consider these captivating facts:
- Each brood emerges on a specific schedule, either every 13 or 17 years.
- The periodical cicadas’ nymphs live underground, feeding on tree roots.
- Adult cicadas live only for a few weeks, focusing solely on reproduction.
Predator Satiation: A Survival Tactic
The sheer number of cicadas emerging at once overwhelms predators. This “predator satiation” strategy ensures that enough cicadas survive to reproduce, even with significant predation.
Dr. Bentley used a hamburger analogy. imagine your favorite meal is a hamburger, but you’re suddenly faced with 1,000 hamburgers in a few days. you’d quickly tire of them. This is similar to how predators react to the cicada emergence.
When Will the Cicadas Arrive?
3News Senior Meteorologist Matt Wintz points out that optimal ground temperatures are crucial for the emergence.Ground temperatures need to reach the low 60s Fahrenheit, about six inches below the surface.
“I would imagine the next couple of weeks we’ll be dealing with that hissing sound of the cicadas after we get rid of the midges and the mayflies,” Wintz said, indicating that the cicada emergence is imminent.
Cicada vs.Locust: Understanding the Difference
While often confused, cicadas and locusts are distinct insects. Cicadas belong to the order Hemiptera, while locusts are grasshoppers in the order Orthoptera. Locusts are known for forming destructive swarms, while cicadas are generally harmless to plants, except for minor damage during egg-laying.
disclaimer: While cicadas are generally harmless, consult with a pest control professional if you observe significant damage to your trees.
Comparing Cicada Broods: 13-Year vs. 17-Year Cycles
Cicada broods are categorized by their emergence cycles, with some appearing every 13 years and others every 17 years.These cycles are thought to have evolved to avoid predator synchronization and to minimize competition between different broods.Here’s a speedy comparison:
| Characteristic | 13-Year Cicadas | 17-Year Cicadas |
|---|---|---|
| Emergence Cycle | Every 13 years | Every 17 years |
| Geographic Distribution | Southeastern United States | Northeastern and Midwestern United States |
| Number of Broods | Several | Several |
| evolutionary Advantage | Avoid predator synchronization, minimize competition | Avoid predator synchronization, minimize competition |
Context & Evergreen Insights
The emergence of periodical cicadas is more than just an entomological event. It’s an ecological phenomenon that impacts the habitat and provides opportunities for scientific research. The mass emergence provides a food source for birds and other animals. Additionally,their egg-laying behavior can aerate the soil,benefiting plant growth.
The last time Brood XIV emerged (2007), social media was in it’s relative infancy.Now, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X will feature countless cicada sightings.
Pro Tip: Use a macro lens on your smartphone to capture detailed images of the cicadas without disturbing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Brood XIV cicadas?
- Brood XIV cicadas are a group of periodical cicadas that emerge every 17 years.This particular brood is emerging across a dozen states, including ohio, in 2024.
- Why are entomologists excited about the cicada emergence?
- The emergence of millions of cicadas is a significant natural event.Entomologists view it as a unique opportunity to study insect behavior and population dynamics.
- When will the cicadas disappear again?
- The cicadas will only be around for a short time. After they emerge, feed, and lay their eggs, they will disappear again for another 17 years.
- How do the cicadas overwhelm their predators?
- Cicadas emerge in such massive numbers that it overwhelms their predators. the sheer volume of cicadas means that predators can eat their fill and still leave the majority of the cicada population intact.
- What temperature is required for cicadas to emerge?
- Ground temperatures approximately six inches below the surface need to be in the low 60s Fahrenheit for the cicadas to emerge.
- Where are the cicadas emerging?
- Brood XIV cicadas are expected to emerge across a dozen states, including Ohio, providing a spectacular natural event in these regions.
Have you seen or heard the Brood XIV cicadas in your area? Share your experiences and photos in the comments below!
