Cicada outbreak threatens orchards in Duhok as grape harvest begins

DUHOK — A destructive wave of cicadas has emerged in several villages across Duhok governorate, damaging fruit orchards and prompting concern among farmers and agricultural authorities.

The outbreak, reported in Zawita subdistrict, has affected villages in Bere Bahar, Bade, and Imenki, where farmers say the insects are swarming fruit trees. Agricultural officials have confirmed the infestation and dispatched field teams to assess the damage and advise farmers on containment measures.

Ahmad Jamil, head of Duhok’s Agriculture Directorate, said drought conditions were a key factor. “We sent teams to the villages and issued the necessary instructions to the farmers,” he told 964media. “Based on those guidelines, they can easily combat this type of pest and preserve the health of their trees.” He noted that while the insects have caused visible damage, there is currently no permanent treatment.

Cicadas, which are more common in arid regions such as deserts, are divided into two categories: annual cicadas, which live between two and five years, and periodical cicadas, which remain underground for 13 to 17 years before emerging in large numbers. The current outbreak is believed to fall into the latter category.

Despite the infestation, grape harvesting has begun in the governorate, with early projections estimating more than 60,000 tons this season. Jamil attributed the strong yield to favorable weather and improved vineyard care. “We expect this year’s production to exceed 60,000 tons,” he said, adding that limited rainfall had not negatively affected the crop.

Duhok is a key center of grape production in Iraq, with more than 20,000 dunams (about 4,940 acres) cultivated annually. The region produces approximately 125 grape varieties, including Kemali, Halwani, Taifi, and both black and yellow grapes. Black grapes remain the most sought-after variety, selling for 2,500 to 3,000 Iraqi dinars ($1.70 to $2) per kilogram at the start of the season.