Udeopsylla

Distinguished from other camel cricket genera by its robust body build and specific genitalic characters. The monotypic status means any specimen assigned to this genus is U. robusta. Field identification relies on the combination of large size relative to other rhaphidophorids, humpbacked profile, and geographic range overlapping with known distribution records.

Wingless orthopterans with the characteristic humpbacked profile of camel crickets. As the specific epithet suggests, U. robusta is notably sturdy in build compared to related genera. Like other rhaphidophorids, they possess long, thread-like antennae that extend well beyond the body length, enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping, and a dorsoventrally compressed body form. The body is typically pale to medium brown with variable patterning.

Found in oak-juniper-pine woodlands and adjacent habitats. Observations indicate association with montane and foothill environments in the southwestern United States. Specific microhabitat preferences include ground-level activity in wooded areas, often encountered on roadsides and trails at night.

Recorded from Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, New Mexico, and northeastern Mexico. Distribution appears disjunct, with populations in the Midwest and Southwest separated by the Great Plains. The southwestern records cluster in the Sacramento Mountains of New Mexico and adjacent areas.

Adults active from late spring through summer. Specific phenology data sparse, but observations from New Mexico in late May indicate nighttime activity during this period.

Developmental details unknown. As with other rhaphidophorids, likely has an extended nymphal period with gradual development, though specific data are lacking.

Nocturnal and ground-active. When disturbed, exhibits dramatic defensive behaviors including regurgitation of gut contents, defecation, and adoption of exaggerated, seemingly 'hilarious' defensive postures. These behaviors have been observed in field encounters and appear consistent across individuals.

Presumably serves as prey for nocturnal predators including spiders, scorpions, and small vertebrates. Specific ecological functions unstudied.

Of minor significance as a curiosity; occasionally encountered by entomologists and naturalists during nocturnal fieldwork. Not known to be a pest species or to invade structures.

• CeuthophilusLargest and most diverse genus of North American camel crickets; Udeopsylla distinguished by more robust build and different genitalic structure
• DaihiniaAnother rhaphidophorid genus with overlapping range; differs in body proportions and habitat preferences

• camel cricket
• nocturnal
• wingless
• defensive behavior
• monotypic
• montane
• Rhaphidophoridae

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life
• Grasshoppers of Colorado
• Grasshoppers of Colorado
• 2022 Six-State Insect Collecting Trip iReport | Beetles In The Bush