Scientists propose that climate change could impact cicadas’ cycles

Cicadas that emerge in sync with their brood have a better chance of survival due to a safety-in-numbers strategy against predators. The upcoming emergence of periodical cicadas is expected to be massive, which is attributed to rising temperatures and climate change. Researchers have observed changes in the insects’ rhythms and an increase in the number of stragglers emerging early. The theory suggests that cicada broods may shift timing in response to climate warming. Periodical cicadas have unique emergence cycles and behaviors, and scientists are still unraveling the mysteries behind their synchronization and communication underground.

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