Why Are Periodical Cicadas So ... Periodical?

Cicadas are known for their loud springtime emergence, spending most of their lives underground. Periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years, a cycle possibly evolved to avoid predators. Their life cycle's prime number duration may prevent predator synchronization. Despite abundant food, bird populations dip during cicada emergence, possibly due to ecosystem changes. Cicadas enrich the environment post-death, affecting plant growth and small mammals. Researching cicadas is challenging due to their long cycles, but they offer insights into biological and mathematical interactions.

Why might prime numbers in cicada life cycles be advantageous?

In what ways do cicadas influence their environment after they die?