Cicadas: Nature's Timed Phenomenon

Cicadas are insects that live underground for most of their lives, emerging every 13 or 17 years in massive numbers to molt, mate, and die. This synchronized emergence overwhelms predators, ensuring some cicadas survive to reproduce. Cicadas are known for their loud mating calls, which can reach up to 100 decibels. They face various predators and parasites, including the Massospora fungus. The reason for their specific emergence cycles remains uncertain, though it may relate to prime numbers. After mating, cicadas lay eggs, continuing the cycle for future generations.

What is the primary activity of cicadas during their 17-year underground phase?

• Feeding on plant roots

• Building nests

• Hibernating

• Searching for mates

How often do some broods of cicadas emerge?

• Every 5 years

• Every 13 or 17 years

• Every 10 years

• Every 20 years

What is the primary purpose of the loud noise made by male cicadas?

• To mark their territory

• To communicate with other insects

• To attract female mates

• To scare away predators

What unusual behavior might male cicadas exhibit when they hear a chainsaw?

• They dig underground

• They flock towards it

• They fly away

• They become silent

What does the Massospora fungus do to cicadas?

• Protects them from predators

• Enhances their mating calls

• Eats them alive and spreads spores

• Helps them molt

Why is the synchronized emergence of cicadas advantageous?

• It helps them find food

• It ensures some survive to reproduce

• It confuses predators

• It allows them to migrate

What is one reason why cicadas might have a 13 or 17-year cycle?

• To outlive predator lifespans

• To avoid human activity

• To align with lunar cycles

• To synchronize with plant growth

What happens to cicadas after they mate?

• They slowly die off

• They return underground

• They change color

• They migrate to a new area

What begins the next cycle of cicadas?

• The hatching of eggs

• The migration of adults

• The increase in temperature

• The change in seasons

How long do cicada nymphs stay underground before emerging?

• 5 years

• 20 years

• 10 years

• 13 or 17 years