Brood X
Brood X refers to a group of periodical cicadas that emerge every 17 years in the eastern United States. This particular brood is one of the largest and most well-known, with millions of cicadas emerging simultaneously to mate and lay eggs. Their life cycle includes spending most of their lives underground as nymphs before surfacing in late spring.
The last emergence of Brood X occurred in 2021, attracting significant attention due to the sheer number of cicadas. These insects are known for their loud mating calls, which can reach up to 100 decibels. After mating, the adult cicadas die, and their offspring will remain underground until the next emergence in 2038.