I have numerous questions, and I hope they aren't annoying!
Do cicada shells break down over time, even if they're out of the elements?
How best could one preserve cicada shells?
What's the best way to collect dead cicadas? (Those that've died naturally)
Where should I look to find cicada nymphs? (I mean obviously deciduous tree roots, but like... any tips?)
Would it be possible to raise cicadas, as others do with many different kinds of arthropods?
Are you at all annoyed that I've asked so many questions about cicadas? 😭
I certainly don’t mind questions!
1. They’re organic so yes, they will eventually break down, but if they’re stored in a dry area out of direct sunlight and away from pests like dermestid beetles, it would likely take a long long LONG time. Couldn’t give you a number, exactly, but we certainly have insect specimens in museum collections that have been stored for hundreds of years, and they’ve found lice in the hair of mummies that are thousands of years old, so...make of that what you will.
2. Just let them dry out well! No need to do anything else. You can then pin them to boards or keep them in jars or whatever other display method you prefer.
3. Not entirely clear on what you mean by this one! Feel free to clarify and tag me so I see the comment.
4. Cicada nymphs live under ground, so looking for them will be difficult unless you catch them when they emerge from the ground to mold into adults. I’d need to know your location to tell you what time of year you may be most likely to find them emerging.
5. I have never kept them nor heard of anyone who has so I can’t offer advice! You could likely keep the adults for a short amount of time, but nymphs would be difficult since they live underground and feed from fluid in tree roots.
6. No! :)
