Jerusalem Crickets
Stenopelmatidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Orthoptera
- Suborder: Ensifera
- Infraorder: Tettigoniidea
- Family: Stenopelmatidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stenopelmatidae: /ˌstɛnəˌpɛlməˈtaɪdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Stenopelmatidae, known as Jerusalem crickets, are large, primarily flightless orthopterans predominantly found underground in damp, sandy soils. Though not aggressive, they can inflict a painful bite if threatened. Their life cycle involves laying eggs underground, and they play a role in soil ecology.
Physical Characteristics
Length: Up to 7.5 cm; Weight: Up to 13 g.
Identification Tips
Recognized for their large size and powerful jaws, which are typically used for burrowing and feeding on roots. Their defensive posture can be identified when disturbed.
Habitat
Damp, sandy soil with organic matter; mostly found underground.
Distribution
North America from British Columbia to Central America; over 50 species in the region, mostly undescribed, with about 200 described species worldwide as of 1991.
Diet
Feeds on roots and organic matter in the soil.
Life Cycle
Eggs are laid several inches underground by females, hatching in spring. Fully grown adults develop by fall.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs underground during the lifecycle; no specific information on mating habits provided.
Predators
Horsehair worms (Gordius or Paragordius spp.) can infect and manipulate behavior, causing crickets to seek water where they may drown or die from parasitic exit.
Ecosystem Role
As soil dwellers, they likely play a role in organic matter recycling and soil aeration.
Cultural Significance
Commonly referred to as 'Children of the Earth' in Mexican culture, indicating their local significance.
Health Concerns
Not aggressive, but can bite if molested; no venom.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection from underground burrows
- Trapping methods
Preservation Methods
- Alcohol preservation
- Drying and mounting
- Freezing prior to preservation
Evolution
Classification of Stenopelmatidae is ongoing, with debates regarding its taxonomic structure and lineage.
Similar Taxa
- Gryllacrididae
- Schizodactyloidea
Misconceptions
They are sometimes thought to be particularly aggressive but are mostly non-aggressive unless threatened.
Tags
- Jerusalem Crickets
- Stenopelmatidae
- Orthoptera
- Insecta
- Biology