The Great Emergence: Brood XIV Cicadas Set to Resurface After 17 Years Underground

After nearly two decades of silent slumber beneath the earth, Brood XIV, a vast swarm of periodical cicadas, is poised to emerge across a significant swathe of the eastern United States. This remarkable event, occurring every 17 years, marks a brief but impactful chapter in the intricate tapestry of the region’s ecosystem. These insects, having spent their formative years developing underground, will briefly reclaim the surface, engaging in a frenzied cycle of mating and reproduction before their short adult lives come to an end.

The anticipated emergence, expected to take place around May and June, will transform landscapes from Long Island to central Tennessee. Billions of cicadas will rise from the soil, creating a cacophony of buzzing and clicking sounds that will dominate the soundscape. For those accustomed to the steady hum of everyday life, the sheer intensity of the cicada chorus will be an experience unlike any other.

What makes Brood XIV’s reemergence particularly noteworthy is the amount of historical and global events these creatures have managed to avoid during their time underground. They remained hidden from the world during the global Covid-19 pandemic, Donald Trump’s presidency, Brexit, and various global conflicts. The world has dramatically changed during their subterranean rest, but they remained oblivious to the surface world and the complex workings of human society.

These insects follow a strict life cycle, characterized by two distinct phases. The vast majority of their lives are spent as nymphs, developing and feeding on plant roots deep beneath the soil. During this time, they undergo a series of molts, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow larger and stronger. This lengthy underground period allows them to avoid predators and synchronize their emergence with other members of their brood.

The trigger for their mass emergence is complex and not fully understood, but scientists believe it is related to soil temperature. Once the soil reaches a certain threshold, typically around 64 degrees Fahrenheit, the nymphs begin to tunnel upwards, preparing for their dramatic debut.

Upon emerging, the nymphs shed their final exoskeletons, transforming into winged adults. These adults are primarily focused on reproduction. Males will gather in large groups and produce their characteristic mating calls, which can reach deafening levels, attracting females. After mating, the females will lay their eggs in the branches of trees. Once the eggs hatch, the new nymphs will fall to the ground and burrow underground, beginning the cycle anew. The adult cicadas, having fulfilled their reproductive role, will die shortly after.

Eastern North America is the only place in the world where periodical cicadas are found. These insects are divided into different broods, each with its own 13- or 17-year emergence cycle. This cyclical nature of their life cycle is a remarkable adaptation, allowing them to overwhelm predators with their sheer numbers and ensure the survival of their species. Annual cicadas, in contrast, emerge every year.

The map showing the expected locations of Brood XIV may provide a general overview of where they will appear. But the distribution may vary within these areas. To consult a map showing a more detailed assessment of where the swarm is expected to emerge, consult a map supplied by the University of Connecticut. This will provide a more granular understanding of the brood’s distribution across the affected region. The university’s map similarly denotes the areas in neon green.

The sudden explosion of cicadas will have a profound impact on the ecosystem. As they emerge, the insects become a readily available food source for a wide range of animals, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The influx of cicadas can cause a surge in bird populations, as they take advantage of the abundant food source. At the same time, the emergence can alter the hunting behavior of other predators, as they shift their focus to the cicadas.

This influx of insects can also have a positive impact on the health of the forest. As the adult cicadas die, their decomposing bodies release nutrients into the soil, enriching it and promoting plant growth. The egg-laying activity of the females can also help to prune trees, stimulating new growth and improving overall forest health.

Scientists are eager to study Brood XIV’s emergence to gain a better understanding of their behavior, genetics, and ecological impact. Citizen scientists are also helping by contributing to the data collection efforts. By reporting sightings and submitting photos, these volunteers can help researchers track the distribution and abundance of the cicadas.

One useful tool for this purpose is the Cicada Safari app, which allows users to submit photos and locations of cicada sightings. These reports will help researchers to refine their understanding of cicada distribution and track the progress of their emergence.

The emergence of Brood XIV is a rare and fascinating natural phenomenon, a reminder of the intricate connections within our ecosystems. Though the cicadas’ time above ground will be brief, their impact will be felt for years to come, reshaping the landscape and influencing the lives of countless other organisms. So, prepare yourself for the coming swarm, and take a moment to appreciate the wonder of this extraordinary event. The cicadas’ emergence will provide a fleeting but unforgettable experience that will echo in the memories of those who witness it.