Cicadas, recognized by their distinctive buzzing sounds, often prompt curiosity about their presence. These insects, with their unique life cycles, are a common part of the natural soundscape in many areas, including Florida. Understanding their presence involves looking into the specific types of cicadas found in the state and their emergence patterns.
Florida’s Cicada Inhabitants
Cicadas are present throughout Florida, with approximately 16 to 19 different species identified in the state. Unlike other parts of the United States, Florida does not experience the large, synchronized emergences of periodical cicadas. These cicadas, belonging to the genus Magicicada, emerge every 13 or 17 years in massive numbers elsewhere.
Florida’s cicadas are predominantly considered “annual” or “dog-day” cicadas, a term that refers to their appearance every year. While they are called annual, individual cicadas typically have multi-year life cycles underground, lasting for several years before they emerge as adults. Examples of annual cicadas found in Florida include species from the Tibicen genus, such as the “dog-day” cicada (Neotibicen canicularis), and Neocicada hieroglyphica. Other species like Diceroprocta biconica and Diceroprocta olympusa are also found, with the Olympic scrub cicada being widely distributed across the state.
The Cicada Lifecycle and Emergence
The general cicada lifecycle begins when female adults lay their eggs in the twigs of trees. After hatching, tiny nymphs drop to the ground and burrow into the soil, where they spend the majority of their lives. Underground, these nymphs feed on the sap from tree roots, a process that can last for multiple years.
When mature, typically in late spring through summer, the nymphs construct tunnels to the surface. They then emerge from the ground and shed their exoskeletons to transform into winged adults. These discarded nymphal shells are a common sign of their emergence. Adult cicadas have a short lifespan above ground, usually lasting about four to six weeks, during which their primary focus is reproduction.
Common Questions About Florida Cicadas
The loud, rhythmic buzzing sound associated with cicadas is primarily produced by male cicadas. They use specialized structures called tymbals on their abdomens to create calls that serve as mating songs to attract females. The intensity and frequency of these sounds can vary depending on the species, time of day, and temperature, with warmer conditions often leading to louder calls.
Cicadas are generally considered harmless to humans and pets. They do not bite or sting, and they do not carry diseases that can be transmitted to people. While they possess piercing-sucking mouthparts for feeding on plant sap, they do not typically use these on humans. Damage to trees from cicadas is usually minimal, primarily occurring when females make small slits in twigs to lay eggs. Mature trees can generally withstand this minor damage. Young trees with smaller branches might be more susceptible. Cicadas also contribute to the ecosystem by serving as a food source for various predators and by aerating the soil through their underground tunneling.