Hadenoecus

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hadenoecus: /həˈdɛnə.kus/

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Summary

Hadenoecus is a genus of cave crickets found in the southeastern United States, characterized by their long antennae and powerful rear legs that aid in quick movement and predator evasion. Their species are closely related and often confused due to similar physical traits, suggesting a single species concept may be more appropriate than recognizing multiple distinct species.

Physical Characteristics

Rather plain dull grayish brown to pale orangey brown; legs long and slender; hind tibiae with two rows of longer movable spurs separated by numerous smaller spines; head with fastigium somewhat projecting and divided.

Identification Tips

Distinguished by differing shapes of male and female abdominal sternites and epiprocts; geographical displacement of species; traits may vary within populations.

Habitat

Caves in eastern and central Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as possibly in adjacent states.

Distribution

Southeastern United States, particularly in cave systems such as Mammoth Cave in central Kentucky.

Ecosystem Role

Cave crickets are part of cave ecosystems, contributing to the nutrient cycle as detritivores.

Evolution

The status of these as true biological species is dubious, potentially representing regional variants of a single species.