Rhaphidophoroidea

Definition

A superfamily of orthopteran insects in the suborder Ensifera, comprising the family Rhaphidophoridae (cave crickets, camel crickets, spider crickets, and sand treaders). Members are characterized by being flightless, nocturnal, and typically possessing elongated antennae and legs; most occupy moist, dark habitats including caves, forest litter, animal burrows, and cellars. The superfamily has a worldwide distribution with more than 500 described species.

Etymology

From Rhaphidophora (type genus, from Greek rhaphis 'needle' + phoros 'bearing') + -oidea (superfamily suffix)

Example

The New Zealand jumping wētā, a member of Rhaphidophoroidea, illustrates the group's tendency toward cavernicolous and nocturnal habits, having lost functional wings and developed enhanced sensory appendages for life in dark, humid environments.

Related Terms

• Rhaphidophoridae
• Ensifera
• Orthoptera
• cavernicolous
• Apterous
• wētā

Usage Notes

Rhaphidophoroidea is sometimes treated as containing only Rhaphidophoridae, though some classifications have historically included additional families. The superfamily is distinguished from other ensiferan superfamilies (Grylloidea, Tettigonoidea) by its flightless condition and reduced wing structures. The common name 'cave cricket' is broadly applied but not all species are strictly troglobitic; many occupy surface microhabitats with similar moisture and darkness regimes. The spelling 'Raphidophoroidea' (without the 'h') appears in some older literature but is now considered incorrect.