Katydids
Tettigoniidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Orthoptera
- Suborder: Ensifera
- Infraorder: Tettigoniidea
- Family: Tettigoniidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tettigoniidae: //ˌtɛtɪˈɡoʊni.aɪdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Tettigoniidae, commonly known as katydids or bush crickets, are diverse insects known for their long antennae and nocturnal stridulation. They play vital roles in their ecosystems and exhibit interesting mating behaviors and predation strategies.
Physical Characteristics
Tettigoniids range in size from 5 mm to 130 mm, with longer filamentous antennae that can exceed their body length. They are distinguished from grasshoppers by the shape of their bodies and antennae. They exhibit mimicry and camouflage resembling leaves with varying colors.
Identification Tips
Tettigoniids can be identified by their long, slender antennae and distinctive body shapes that often mimic plant foliage. They typically produce stridulation sounds for mating calls.
Habitat
Tettigoniids are tree-living insects found in various habitats, predominantly in tropical regions. They can inhabit cool, dry temperate areas as well.
Distribution
Tettigoniids are found on every continent except Antarctica, with the majority of species living in tropical regions, including over 2,000 species in the Amazon basin.
Diet
Most species primarily feed on vegetation like leaves, flowers, bark, and seeds. Some species are predatory, feeding on other insects, snails, or small vertebrates.
Life Cycle
Eggs are typically oval and laid in rows on plants. Nymphs resemble tiny wingless adults in some species, while others show different forms to avoid predation. They complete several molts before reaching maturity and can exhibit mimicry during their nymph stage.
Reproduction
Males provide a nuptial gift (spermatophylax) to females during mating to distract them from consuming the spermatophore. Mating is polygamous, leading to competitive behaviors among males.
Predators
Natural predators include birds, mammals, and other insects. Tettigoniids often use mimicry and camouflage to evade predation.
Ecosystem Role
Tettigoniids play essential roles in ecosystems as herbivores and predators, affecting plant communities and prey populations.
Economic Impact
Some species are considered pests in agriculture, particularly affecting crops like karuka. However, their overall economic impact is usually low due to low population densities.
Cultural Significance
The common name 'katydid' is derived from their distinct mating calls, which are a recognized part of the summer soundscape in many regions.
Health Concerns
Some large species can inflict painful bites but seldom break the skin; rarely pose significant health concerns for humans.
Collecting Methods
- Visual observation
- Net capture
- Trapping with bait
Preservation Methods
- Freezing
- Drying
- Alcohol preservation
Evolution
The family Tettigoniidae is the only extant family of the superfamily Tettigonioidea, with a wide range of morphological and ecological diversifications. It has evolved through adaptations to diverse habitats and predation avoidance strategies.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse katydids with grasshoppers due to similar appearances, but they can be distinguished by their antennae length and body shape.
Tags
- Tettigoniidae
- Katydids
- Orthoptera
- Insects
- Biodiversity