Rhaphidophoridae

Common Name

Camel crickets, cave crickets, and spider crickets

Overview

The Rhaphidophoridae family encompasses a variety of wingless, cricket-like insects often found in caves, cool humid forests, basements, and other cool, damp places. These orthopterans are notable for their long antennae and distinctive humped appearance.

Taxonomy

• Order: Orthoptera
• Suborder: Ensifera
• Family: Rhaphidophoridae

Key Characteristics

• Body Shape: Hump-backed with long, slender legs.
• Antennae: Very long, often longer than their body.
• Coloration: Generally dull brown or gray; some species exhibit unique patterns.

Life Cycle

Rhaphidophoridae undergo incomplete metamorphosis, comprising three stages:

• Egg: Laid in soil or plant debris.
• Nymph: Resembling adults but smaller and without mature reproductive organs.
• Adult: Achieved after several molts; sexually mature.

Behavior and Ecology

• Habitat: Prefers dark, humid environments.
• Diet: Primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying plant matter, fungi, and occasionally small invertebrates.
• Activity: Nocturnal; avoids light.
• Reproduction: Mating involves a transfer of spermatophore from male to female.

Notable Species

• Tachycines asynamorus: Commonly known as the greenhouse camel cricket.
• Diestrammena asynamora: The Japanese camel cricket, often found in North America.

Conservation

Most species are not considered at risk. However, specific cave-dwelling species could be vulnerable to habitat destruction and pollution.

Significance to Humans

While generally harmless, their presence in homes (especially basements) can be a nuisance. They can indicate high humidity levels in households.

Fun Facts

• No Chirping: Unlike true crickets, camel crickets do not produce sound.
• Longevity: Some species can live up to two years.
• Invasive Species: The greenhouse camel cricket, originally from Asia, has become widespread in the United States.
• Autotomy: Can shed limbs to escape predators, similar to some lizards.