Winged Bush Crickets, Trigs

Trigonidiinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Trigonidiinae: /trɪɡoʊˈnɪdi.aɪni/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Trigonidiinae, commonly known as winged bush crickets or trigs, is a small and diverse group of insects within the Orthoptera order, distinguished by their unique morphology and varied habitats across the Americas. This subfamily, with 19 species in North America, plays significant roles in their ecological systems and showcases a variety of colors and sizes.

Physical Characteristics

Trigonidiinae are characterized by their generally small to medium size and can exhibit varying coloration. For instance, species in the Anaxipha genus are typically brown or tan, while Cyrtoxipha species tend to be greenish. The prominent color contrast exists in Phyllopalpus with bright black and red coloration.

Identification Tips

Identification can be made based on the morphology of their wings and body coloration, especially the presence of distinctive coloration patterns, such as the black and red found in Phyllopalpus species.

Habitat

These crickets inhabit a variety of environments, including grasslands, forests, and areas with abundant foliage. They are often found in leaf litter or low vegetation.

Distribution

Trigonidiinae is distributed widely across the Americas, with 19 species identified in North America alone. Their distribution ranges from Texas to Florida and northward to Massachusetts.

Diet

The diet of Trigonidiinae encompasses a wide range of food sources including leaves, flowers, insect eggs, and small insects.

Life Cycle

The life cycle typically includes a nymph stage, and the exact duration can vary by species depending on environmental conditions.

Reproduction

Reproductive behaviors, including mating calls, are common but may vary by species. The specifics of egg-laying practices are not detailed in the available data.

Predators

Natural predators of Trigonidiinae include birds and other insectivorous animals.

Ecosystem Role

Trigonidiinae play an important role in their ecosystems as herbivores and prey for various predators, thereby contributing to the food web.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting in vegetation
  • Hand collection

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinning

Evolution

Trigonidiinae has undergone various taxonomic revisions; it was once classified under the family Trigonidiidae and has been realigned with Gryllidae prior to being reinstated as its own family in 2022.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some people may confuse Trigonidiinae with common field crickets, lacking knowledge of their specific ecological niche and morphological differences.

Tags

  • Orthoptera
  • Insects
  • Trigonidiinae
  • Crickets