Rhaphidophoridae

Definition

A family of flightless, nocturnal orthopteran insects in the suborder Ensifera, commonly known as cave crickets, camel crickets, spider crickets, or (in New Zealand) cave wētā. Members are characterized by elongated antennae and legs, a humpbacked thorax, and obligate association with dark, humid microhabitats such as caves, forest litter, animal burrows, and cellars. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution with more than 500 described species.

Etymology

From Greek rhaphis (needle) and phoros (bearing), referring to the long, thread-like antennae characteristic of the group.

Example

Rhaphidophoridae such as the widespread North American genus Ceuthophilus are frequently encountered in basements and caves, where their long legs and antennae aid in navigating darkness and detecting predators.

Synonyms

• camel crickets (vernacular)
• cave crickets (vernacular)
• spider crickets (vernacular)

Related Terms

• Ensifera
• Orthoptera
• Gryllidae
• Tettigoniidae
• cavernicolous
• Apterous
• Nocturnal

Usage Notes

The family is distinguished from true crickets (Gryllidae) and katydids (Tettigoniidae) by the absence of wings and tympanal organs, reduced or absent ovipositor, and preference for cryptic habitats. New Zealand species are ecologically convergent with wētā (Anostostomatidae) and are traditionally called 'cave wētā' or 'jumping wētā,' though they are not closely related to true wētā. The common name 'spider cricket' refers to their long-legged, humpbacked appearance, not phylogenetic affinity with arachnids.