Scapteriscus

Definition

A genus of two-clawed mole crickets (family Gryllotalpidae) native to South America, characterized by forelegs modified for burrowing with two distinct dactyls (claws) rather than the four typical of many mole crickets. Several species have been introduced to North America and elsewhere, where they have become invasive turf and pasture pests, damaging grass roots and creating unsightly tunnels.

Etymology

From Greek skaptein (to dig) + -iscus (diminutive suffix), referring to the burrowing habit.

Example

Scapteriscus vicinus and S. borellii (now often placed in Neoscapteriscus) were introduced to the southeastern United States in the early 1900s and remain major pests of golf courses and lawns, with biological control efforts focused on the parasitoid wasp Larra bicolor.

Related Terms

• Neoscapteriscus
• Gryllotalpidae
• Mole cricket
• Orthoptera
• Invasive species
• turf pest
• Biological control

Usage Notes

The genus has undergone taxonomic revision; several species formerly in Scapteriscus (including the economically important S. borellii and S. didactylus) have been moved to Neoscapteriscus. The common name 'two-clawed mole cricket' distinguishes Scapteriscus and Neoscapteriscus from four-clawed genera such as Gryllotalpa. In applied entomology literature, 'Scapteriscus' may still be used broadly to refer to these pest species regardless of current generic placement.