The Phenomenon of Cicadas: A Detailed Explanation

Why did the cicadas disappear from suburban areas surrounding Chicago in 2007?

What factors contributed to the absence of cicadas in certain neighborhoods despite their reemergence in Illinois?

Answer:

The cicadas may have disappeared from suburban areas surrounding Chicago in 2007 due to their natural life cycle and limited range of movement.

Cicadas, specifically the Magicicada species, have a fascinating life cycle that spans over a period of 17 years. These insects spend the majority of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots and growing until they are ready to emerge as adults. Once they emerge, they typically do not travel far from the location where they initially appeared.

In the case of the 2007 reemergence of Brood XIII in Illinois, while some areas experienced a significant cicada presence, suburban neighborhoods surrounding Chicago did not witness the same phenomenon. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that cicadas do not migrate extensively, with adults usually staying within a quarter-mile radius of their emergence site.

Furthermore, the fact that the nymphs molt in trees and the adults lay eggs in tree branches further limits their movement and distribution. Suburban areas may have lacked the suitable tree habitats required for the cicadas to complete their life cycle, resulting in their absence in those specific locations.

Overall, the unique and cyclical nature of cicadas' life cycle, coupled with their limited mobility and specific habitat requirements, offer a comprehensive explanation as to why these insects did not appear in suburban areas surrounding Chicago during the 2007 reemergence.