Scientists suggest that the highest probability of interaction between two groups of cicadas is probably in the vicinity of Springfield, Illinois.
This year in the United States, an extremely rare synchronized event is anticipated as billions of cicadas from two distinct broods are poised to emerge from below the surface. The last occurrence of such an event dates back to 1803.
The two broods, one with a 13-year life cycle and the other with a 17-year cycle, are expected to surface simultaneously after 221 years underground, according to scientists.
Cicadas are found on nearly every continent worldwide, with over 3,000 different species identified, excluding Antarctica.
The convergence of these two broods of cicadas, distinguished by their black bodies, red eyes, and wings, is exceptionally uncommon. Billions of these insects are projected to emerge from the ground between late May and June to mate and initiate a new life cycle.
Researchers indicate that the Brood XIII cicadas, following a 17-year cycle and last observed in 2007, will emerge predominantly in Illinois, with some also surfacing in parts of Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, and possibly Michigan.
Meanwhile, Brood XIX cicadas, emerging every 13 years, are expected to emerge across 15 states in the US.
By surfacing only once every 13 or 17 years, cicadas have largely evaded predators above ground.
Mathematicians note that the prime number emergence cycles of 17 and 13 for the two broods have contributed to their infrequent interbreeding and merging.
Researchers from the University of Connecticut caution that the simultaneous emergence of both broods in Illinois could pose unique challenges for entomologists this year.
Although these insects pose no threat to humans and can serve as a valuable food source for birds, their sheer numbers may result in their calls and carcasses becoming a nuisance.
Entomologist Floyd Shockley from the National Museum of Natural History highlights the potential for genetic crossbreeding between 13-year and 17-year cicadas, which could give rise to a new brood during this rare convergence.
Some estimates suggest that trillions of cicadas may emerge this year, with scientists at the University of Connecticut anticipating their presence from Maryland to Oklahoma and from Illinois to Alabama. However, it is unlikely that all cicadas will emerge simultaneously in the same location.
