Thirteen-year periodical cicada

Systematic position: The thirteen-year periodical cicada (Magicicada tredecim) is a member of the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadidae. It is a distinct species noted for its synchronized mass emergence every thirteen years, which distinguishes it from other cicada species with different developmental cycles.

Crops and susceptibility: This insect poses a significant threat to a wide range of deciduous woody plants. Orchards, particularly those growing pome and stone fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and cherries, are highly vulnerable. Furthermore, landscape trees like oaks and hickories often sustain damage during peak emergence years.

Biology and lifecycle: The lifecycle of Magicicada tredecim is one of the most remarkable among insects. Nymphs live underground for thirteen years, feeding on xylem fluid from tree roots. Once they reach maturity, they emerge in massive numbers, molt into adults, mate, and deposit eggs, completing their life cycle in just a few weeks above ground.

Nature of damage: The primary harm is caused by females during the oviposition process. By creating deep, longitudinal slits in twigs to insert their eggs, they physically weaken the structure of the branch. This often leads to flagging, where the tips of branches wither and die, and can result in breakage, especially in young, vulnerable trees or newly planted nursery stock.

• Installing protective fine-mesh netting over young trees before the emergence begins.
• Delaying the planting of new orchards to avoid years of high cicada population density.
• Applying registered insecticides to foliage during peak emergence to deter adult activity.
• Pruning and destroying infested twigs before the eggs hatch to reduce the local population of nymphs.