Dolichopodainae
Dolichopodainae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Orthoptera
- Suborder: Ensifera
- Infraorder: Tettigoniidea
- Family: Rhaphidophoridae
- Subfamily: Dolichopodainae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dolichopodainae: //ˌdɒlɪkoʊˈpoʊdənaɪ//
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Summary
Dolichopodainae is a subfamily of cave crickets characterized by a diverse array of species primarily found in the Mediterranean basin and eastern North America, distinguished by their morphological features such as tibial and femoral spines. The genus Dolichopoda includes over 50 described species, with significant diversity centered in Greece.
Physical Characteristics
Dolichopoda species, particularly the largest subgenus, are characterized by prominent spines on the anterior tibiae and hind femurs. Some species lack spines altogether.
Identification Tips
Species identification can be made based on the presence or absence of spines on tibiae and femurs, as well as geographic distribution and morphological features.
Habitat
Cave habitats or moist environments in the Mediterranean basin and eastern North America.
Distribution
Primarily distributed in the Mediterranean basin, southern Europe, western Asia, and with some species in eastern North America.
Diet
Herbivorous, feeding on plant material and organic matter found in their habitats.
Life Cycle
Life cycle details are generally not extensively documented, but like other crickets, they undergo a typical life cycle with egg, nymph, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproductive strategies are not explicitly detailed, but crickets typically engage in courtship behaviors followed by egg-laying in suitable substrates.
Predators
Common predators include various insectivorous animals such as birds and small mammals.
Ecosystem Role
Dolichopoda species play a role in the decomposition process within their cave ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection in cave environments
- Pitfall traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying for museum specimens
Evolution
The phylogeny of Dolichopoda has been debated, leading to reassessments of subgenera based on molecular and morphological evidence showing paraphyletic and polyphyletic relationships.
Similar Taxa
- Dolichopodini
- Tettigoniidae
Misconceptions
Some people may confuse cave crickets with other more common crickets due to their appearance and habitat preferences.
Tags
- Dolichopodinae
- Cave Crickets
- Orthoptera
- Mediterranean
- Biodiversity