Seventeen year locust, also known as periodical cicadas, refers to a specific group of insects belonging to the Cicadidae family, characterized by their unique biological behavior and distinct life cycle. These species are known for their extended periods of underground development, spanning precisely seventeen years, before emerging en masse as adults.
During their subterranean phase, seventeen year locusts undergo metamorphosis, transitioning from nymphs to adults within the soil. They feed on plant roots, drawing sustenance from the xylem sap. The duration of their underground development sets them apart from other cicada species, making them one of the longest-lived insects known to science.
Once the mature cicadas have completed their development, they exit the ground in large numbers, typically triggered by soil temperature reaching a critical threshold. These synchronized emergences are a remarkable natural phenomenon, with countless individuals appearing within a given region virtually simultaneously. Upon emergence, the adult cicadas begin the final stage of their life cycle, focusing on reproduction.
Seventeen year locusts are known for their characteristic chorus of loud, buzzing calls produced by the males to attract females for mating. The females lay their eggs in tree branches, where they develop and eventually fall back to the ground. The newly hatched nymphs burrow into the soil, starting the seventeen-year cycle anew.
The emergence of these periodical cicadas can have ecological impacts. While their presence can be extraordinary and awe-inspiring, with seemingly endless numbers perching on trees and emitting their distinct calls, they can also cause temporary damage to vegetation due to their feeding habits. Nevertheless, these natural events contribute to the overall biodiversity and are fascinating reminders of the remarkable life cycles found in the animal kingdom.
