Latrobe reported that Banneker had in April 1800 described in his record book some of the characteristics of the periodical cicada, whose Brood X would soon begin emerging where he lived.

It was not until 1921 that the pathogen's microscopic characteristics were thoroughly studied by Speare,[6] who found that conidia germinate quickly when placed in a nutrient substance.

Magicicada species spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on xylem fluids of tree roots.

Cicadas are believed to become infected by fungal spores as the nymphs dig tunnels to the soil surface days before their emergence as adults.

[10][11] The Initial infection takes place while cicada nymphs dig their way to the surface of the soil before emerging as adults.

Some time before the death of the host, the rear segments of the abdomen fall off, revealing a white, chalky mass or "plug" of the fungus, which produces spores.

Because of this method of spreading of Stage I spores, cicadas infected with M. cicadina have been referred to as "flying salt shakers of death".

[9] The fruiting bodies of M. cicadina on Stage I infected adult cicadas contain a substituted amphetamine alkaloid, cathinone.

[9] Species of the genus Massospora are found in the same habitats as their host cicadas, which includes large temperate ranges in the Southern and Northern hemispheres.

[12] This suggests the fungus can be utilized as a control agent in decreasing the significant damage cicadas impose on young trees on which they lay their eggs.

[11] Studies of M. cicadina and its hosts can also provide insights into biological clocks and environmental signaling due to their long, synchronous life cycles.