Gryllotalpidae

Common Name

Mole crickets

Overview

Members of the family Gryllotalpidae, commonly known as mole crickets, are unique orthopterans found worldwide. Recognizable for their subterranean lifestyles, these insects have adapted to burrowing with specialized limbs and possess a suite of features that make them fascinating subjects of study.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Robust bodies typically ranging from 20 to 50 millimeters in length.
  • Front legs modified into broad, spade-like structures for digging.
  • Tactile setae on forelegs assist in detecting vibrations in the soil.
  • Winged, though primarily adapted for life underground.
  • Produce loud, cricket-like calls which are often amplified by the burrows.

Life Cycle

  • Eggs : Laid in subterranean chambers.
  • Nymphs : Resemble adults but are wingless; undergo several molts over the span of months to years.
  • Adults : Reach maturity within one to two years, depending on environmental conditions.

Behavior and Ecology

  • Primarily nocturnal, emerging from burrows mostly at night.
  • Create complex tunnel systems which can damage root systems of plants.
  • Omnivorous: feed on plant roots, small invertebrates, and organic material in the soil.
  • Have a significant impact on soil aeration, aiding in the penetration of water and nutrients.

Notable Species

  • Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa : European mole cricket, found across Europe and parts of Asia.
  • Neocurtilla hexadactyla : Northern mole cricket, prevalent in North America, especially in the southeastern United States.
  • Scapteriscus vicinus : Southern mole cricket, an invasive species in the southeastern United States, causing extensive agricultural damage.

Conservation

  • Some species are considered agricultural pests due to their burrowing activities and impact on crops.
  • Conservation efforts focus primarily on controlling populations in affected areas rather than conservation, given their pest status.

Significance to Humans

  • Known to cause damage to lawns, golf courses, and agricultural fields.
  • Their presence indicates soil health and composition changes.
  • Control methods include biological control agents, pesticides, and mechanical barriers.

Fun Facts

  • Mole crickets are excellent burrowers, capable of excavating soil at remarkable speeds.
  • They can create sound chambers in their burrows to amplify their mating calls.
  • Some species have wings but primarily use them for short flights or gliding during their dispersal phase.
  • Mole crickets have been used as fish bait due to their abundance in certain regions.
  • The mole cricket's song can be heard from over 600 meters away under optimal conditions.