Sand-treader Crickets

Macrobaenetes

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Orthoptera
Suborder: Ensifera
Infraorder: Tettigoniidea
Family: Rhaphidophoridae
Subfamily: Ceuthophilinae
Genus: Macrobaenetes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Macrobaenetes: //ˌmæk.roʊˈbiː.nəˌtiːz//

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

Images

Macrobaenetes algodonensis by Bob Miller. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Macrobaenetes kelsoensis by Eric Koberle. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Macrobaenetes valgum by iNaturalist user: nmoorhatch. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Macrobaenetes is a genus of sand-treader crickets unique to California, known for their adaptation to sandy environments and the presence of several distinct species.

Physical Characteristics

Large size relative to other crickets with elongated bodies and long legs adapted for moving through sandy environments.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies with long legs and a sandy coloration that helps them blend into their desert habitats.

Habitat

Found in sandy areas of California, particularly in deserts and dune ecosystems.

Distribution

Described species are primarily located in the Colorado Desert region of California.

Diet

Primarily herbivorous, feeding on various plant materials and detritus found in their sandy habitat.

Life Cycle

Life cycles involve egg laying in sandy soil, with nymphs emerging and maturing into adults over several weeks to months depending on environmental conditions.

Reproduction

Reproduction typically occurs during warm months, with females laying eggs in the soil to protect them from desiccation.

Predators

Birds, lizards, and other insectivores that inhabit their desert environments.

Ecosystem Role

Contributors to soil aeration and organic matter decomposition as they feed on plant material, also serve as prey for various predators.

Collecting Methods

Hand collecting in their natural sandy habitats
Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

Dry storage
Pinned specimens for research

Similar Taxa

Other genera within the family Rhaphidophoridae
Related species of sand-treader crickets

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for common house crickets, but they are adapted for a very different habitat and have distinct behavioral characteristics.