Issue 16, September 19, 2011
Periodical Cicada Hatched
Inspection of damaged tree branches collected near Decatur, IL in Macon County on September 8, 2011 revealed empty egg cases of periodical cicada. The eggs were inserted by the females into tree twigs and branches in June. They hatch several weeks later in late August to early September. Upon hatching, the young nymphs free-fall to the ground, tunnel into the soil, and locate a root to feed upon. Those of this brood remain there for the next thirteen years, feeding on the sap of tree roots. Although they will occasionally burrow to feed on other roots, they stay below the soil surface. (Phil Nixon)
Author:
Phil Nixon