Photo By rcurtis , used under CC-BY-NC-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Pharaoh cicada
Magicicada septendecim
A species of Periodical cicadas, Also known as Seventeen year periodical cicada, Linnaeus' Periodical Cicada, Pharaoh cicada and allies, Decim periodical cicadas, Seventeen-year cicada, Cicada
The pharaoh cicada emerges from underground in the masses every 17 years east of the Great Plains in the United States. This waiting period is crucial for development as these insects feed on plant roots. Interestingly, they continue to stay in large groups in order to overwhelm predators with their calls, which have been said to sound like they're saying "Pharaoh".
General Info About Pharaoh cicada
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Attributes of Pharaoh cicada
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
underground or subterranean habitat; wooded area
Adult Food Sources
Xylem sap from deciduous trees
Larva Food Source
Tree root sap from deciduous trees, fluids from grass roots, sap from shrub roots
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Pharaoh cicada is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Pharaoh cicada
It is native to Canada and the United States.
Distribution Area of Pharaoh cicada
Canada, United States
Appearance of Pharaoh cicada
Like other species included in Magicicada, the insect's eyes and wing veins are reddish and its dorsal thorax is black. It is distinguished by broad orange stripes on its abdomen.
Egg The egg pharaoh cicada is typically oval and minute, deposited in plant tissues. This stage is primarily for development within the protective casing until hatching.
Nymph Upon hatching, the nymph pharaoh cicada resembles the adult but lacks wings and developed reproductive organs. Growth involves molting several times, with incremental changes in size and structure.
Adult Emerging after the final molt, the adult pharaoh cicada exhibits full-size wings and functional reproductive organs. The coloration often reflects maturity and readiness for reproduction, and the size is at its maximum.
Adult Size of Pharaoh cicada
4 cm
Interesting Facts About Pharaoh cicada
Pharaoh cicada have a unique life cycle, surfacing only every 17 years to mate, after spending most of their lives underground as nymphs.
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Youth Habitat of Pharaoh cicada
Forests and Woodlands, On and Within Other Organisms
Adult Habitat of Pharaoh cicada
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
How Can You Attract Pharaoh cicada
There is no specific trap food used to attract pharaoh cicada, as the adults are not known for feeding during their short lifespan above ground.
Habitat Preferences of Pharaoh cicada Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of pharaoh cicada are laid in twigs and branches of deciduous trees. Nymphs emerge and drop to the ground where they dig to find roots for feeding; thus, they are located underground, at varying depths. Searching for them involves gently digging around the roots of potential host trees. Adult pharaoh cicada are found in trees and shrubs where they feed and mate. To observe adults, look around the foliage, often higher up, and listen for their distinctive chorus, which is more prevalent in certain types of forests, particularly during their synchronized emergence years.
When is the Best Time to Observe Pharaoh cicada
Pharaoh cicada typically emerge when the soil temperature reaches approximately 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius), often in late spring or early summer.
Are Pharaoh cicada harmful?
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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