Unprecedented Buzzing: The Noisiest Cicadas of This Summer

The Arrival of the Cicadas

The summer of 2021 has seen an abundant arrival of cicadas in many parts of the world. These small creatures, belonging to the Homoptera family, are infamous for their loud buzzing calls that can reach up to 120 decibels, equivalent to the sound of a chainsaw. Compared to previous years, this summer's cicadas have outdone their predecessors, making their presence felt in every nook and corner of neighborhoods. Their high-pitched symphony echoes across gardens and forests, adding a unique soundtrack to the season.

Reasons for the Cicada Outbreak

The sudden increase of cicadas this year is not merely a chance occurrence, but a result of certain natural phenomena. Cicadas have a life cycle of 17 or 13 years, depending on the species, during which they remain underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots. In the final year of their life cycle, they emerge from the soil, transform into adults, and mate before dying. This year, the soil temperature and rainfall conditions created the perfect environment for the nymphs to thrive, leading to their mass emergence as adults. Moreover, the pandemic lockdowns might have contributed to the cicada abundance. With fewer people outdoors, there was less noise pollution, which allowed the cicadas to propagate without disturbance. In addition, since cicadas feed on sap, fewer lawns were mowed, and trees were pruned, creating an ideal environment for their growth. All these factors combined to make this summer's cicadas louder and more persistent than ever before.

Impacts of the Cicada Outbreak

While the buzzing of cicadas may be annoying to some people, it is essential to understand the positive contribution of these insects to the ecosystem. Cicadas play an essential role in nutrient cycling and forest health by serving as food for birds and other animals. Moreover, their emergence leads to the formation of small holes in the soil, which promote water infiltration, aeration, and nutrient cycling, thus creating better soil conditions for plants. On the flip side, the cicada outbreak has created a nuisance for some people, especially those who have to work from home or study remotely. The constant buzzing can be a distraction, making it difficult to focus on tasks. Additionally, the nymphs penetrate the soil to lay eggs, damaging the roots of shrubs and plants. Moreover, when the adults die, their carcasses litter the ground, creating a mess and an unpleasant odor. In conclusion, the unprecedented cicada outbreak this summer has caused many to take notice of these little insects' buzz. Despite the nuisance they create, it is essential to recognize their ecological significance and the role they play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. As summers arrive in the years to come, it remains to be seen how loud the cicadas' buzz will be, but it's rest assured that their presence will continue to enrich our environment in one way or another.