Periodical cicadas are a remarkable group of insects that periodically emerge in large numbers every 13 or 17 years. These cicadas, which range in color from yellowish-green to black, are known for their characteristic loud chirping and short-lived lives. Although they normally live underground and feed on tree roots, they can be found in the tops of trees when they emerge to mate and lay eggs. In this article, we will take a closer look at periodical cicadas and the different species that exist.
Overview of Periodical Cicadas
Periodical cicadas are a kind of insect that is found in both North America and some parts of Asia. They are typically found in large numbers, emerging from the ground every 13 or 17 years in a phenomenon known as the “Brood”. During this time, they spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots and maturing into adulthood in order to mate and lay eggs. Once they emerge, they will live for only a few weeks before dying off.
Types of Periodical Cicadas
There are three main species of periodical cicadas: Magicicada, Neotibicen, and Okanagana. All three species have different characteristics and life cycles that make them unique.
What Other Species of Periodical Cicadas Exist?
A. Magicicada
Magicicada is the most commonly seen species of periodical cicada. These cicadas are typically bright green with black-colored wings and can reach lengths of up to two inches. They are found in wooded areas throughout the United States and Canada.
1. Appearance
Magicicada cicadas have a bright green body and black-colored wings. They are typically smaller than other species of cicadas, reaching lengths of up to two inches.
2. Habitat
Magicicada cicadas live in wooded areas throughout the United States and Canada. They typically emerge from the ground in large numbers every 13 or 17 years in a phenomenon known as the “Brood”.
3. Life Cycle
Magicicada cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots. Once they emerge, they will live for only a few weeks before dying off.
B. Neotibicen
Neotibicen cicadas are a species of periodical cicada that is found in the eastern United States and Canada. They are typically black-colored with green markings and can reach lengths of up to two inches.
1. Appearance
Neotibicen cicadas are typically black-colored with green markings. They are typically shorter than other species of cicadas, reaching lengths of up to two inches.
2. Habitat
Neotibicen cicadas live in wooded areas throughout the eastern United States and Canada. They typically emerge from the ground in large numbers every 13 or 17 years in a phenomenon known as the “Brood”.
3. Life Cycle
Neotibicen cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots. Once they emerge, they will live for only a few weeks before dying off.
C. Okanagana
Okanagana cicadas are a species of periodical cicada that is found in western North America. They are typically brown-colored with red markings and can reach lengths of up to two inches.
1. Appearance
Okanagana cicadas are typically brown-colored with red markings. They are typically shorter than other species of cicadas, reaching lengths of up to two inches.
2. Habitat
Okanagana cicadas live in wooded areas throughout western North America. They typically emerge from the ground in large numbers every 13 or 17 years in a phenomenon known as the “Brood”.
3. Life Cycle
Okanagana cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots. Once they emerge, they will live for only a few weeks before dying off.
IV. Conclusion
Periodical cicadas are an amazing group of insects that periodically emerge in large numbers every 13 or 17 years. They are typically found in wooded areas throughout North America and Asia and can range in color from yellowish-green to black. While they may be short-lived, they are a fascinating species that is worth learning more about.