Spring Field Cricket

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Gryllus veletis: /ˈɡrɪləs vəˈlɛtɪs/

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Summary

Gryllus veletis, or the spring field cricket, is a solitary, aggressive species found throughout eastern North America, recognizable by its black coloration, chirping in spring, and biological characteristics.

Physical Characteristics

Adult body length measures approximately 22.0 mm (0.87 inches). Males are black with dark brown or black appendages; females have a dark brown ovipositor measuring approximately 14 mm (0.55 inches) and lighter, more reddish legs.

Identification Tips

Males can be identified by their acoustic signals, or song, which helps in species identification. Female colorations differ from males by having lighter, more reddish legs. Anatomical examination can distinguish this species from similar taxa.

Habitat

Disturbed habitats such as old fields and weedy roadsides.

Distribution

Abundant throughout eastern North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Georgia, and as far west as Washington and Oregon. Does not reach as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding on plants (both fresh and decaying), other dead insects, and occasionally preying on other field crickets or live insects.

Life Cycle

Spring field crickets are sexually mature from late May to early August. They overwinter as late-instar nymphs, maturing and emerging as adults in late May. G. veletis undergoes one generation per year.

Reproduction

Males attract females through acoustic signals, known as stridulation. Females lay eggs into a soil substrate using their ovipositor, with egg maturation occurring between June and September.

Predators

American toads, wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, wolf spiders, and red-backed salamanders.

Ecosystem Role

As scavengers, they help decompose plant matter and control populations of other insects like flies by predation.

Economic Impact

Field crickets, including G. veletis, may occasionally invade human dwellings leading to minor fabric damage, but they also contribute positively to the ecosystem by aiding in decomposition.

Similar Taxa

• Gryllus pennsylvanicus
• Gryllus firmus

Misconceptions

Commonly confused with Gryllus pennsylvanicus, but can be distinguished by life history and behavior.

Tags

• cricket
• Gryllus veletis
• omnivorous
• North America
• stridulation