A cicada invasion is currently blanketing the central United States, with the most noticeable aspect being the incredibly loud song produced by the male cicadas. The songs are mating calls unique to each species of periodical cicada. Specifically, the orange-striped decims or pharaoh cicadas and the cassini cicadas stand out for their distinct songs. The cassini cicada produces a buzzy trail that rises in a wave and comes back down, while the pharaoh cicadas create a constant whirring hum with occasional individual calls that sound like “eee-ooo” or “fffaaaro, fffaaaro.” These songs create a symphony of sound that fills the air during the invasion.
The sound of the cicadas comes from a white membrane on the male cicada’s midsection that vibrates to create the loud noise. This membrane acts as an echo chamber, amplifying the sound produced by the cicadas. In a way, the process is similar to how an instrument produces sound, with the vibrations creating a cacophony of noise that can be heard throughout the affected areas. The cicadas use this sound to attract mates and continue their life cycle during the invasion, which occurs periodically in different regions of the United States.
In Wheaton, Illinois, entomologists and insect ecologists are studying the cicada invasion to better understand the behavior and biology of these periodical insects. Jennifer Rydzewski, an insect ecologist at DuPage County Forest Preserve, has observed the cicadas creating their mating calls in a coordinated manner, with different groups calling out in waves from the treetops. The symphony of sound produced by the cicadas has been described as “beautiful chaos” by experts, highlighting the unique and mesmerizing nature of the invasion.
The invasion of periodical cicadas has attracted attention from researchers and the public alike, with many people fascinated by the sight and sound of these insects. The translucent wings of the cicadas and the intricate patterns on their bodies add to the spectacle of the invasion, drawing in curious onlookers to witness the phenomenon. The cicadas play an essential role in local ecosystems, contributing to nutrient recycling and serving as a food source for various predators during their brief adult lifespan.
As the cicada invasion continues to unfold in the central United States, scientists are working to document and study the behavior of these insects to gain insights into their biology and ecology. The loud mating calls produced by the cicadas serve as a unique auditory phenomenon that accompanies the visual spectacle of their emergence. By understanding the role of cicadas in the ecosystem and their impact on local environments, researchers can better appreciate the intricate relationships that exist within nature. It is a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all living organisms in the natural world.
