Neduba
Walker, 1869
shield-back katydid
Neduba is a of shield-back () to North America. The genus comprises 21 described , including one extinct species (N. extincta). A 2021 revision established species boundaries using molecular , , quantitative analysis of calling songs, and karyotypes. The group represents a relict lineage whose diversification reflects cycles of isolation and secondary contact in western North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neduba: /nɛˈduːbə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Neduba are recognized as shield-back , characterized by the extending backward to cover the and most or all of the . -level identification requires examination of calling song parameters, , and karyotype; twelve species were newly described in 2021 based on these integrated approaches.
Images
Distribution
Western North America, with concentration in the California floristic province. Records from California and Washington confirmed.
Host Associations
- Sphex ichneumoneus - Great Golden Digger has been observed paralyzing and provisioning nests with Neduba as food for
Behavior
Males produce -specific calling songs used for and mate attraction; quantitative analysis of song parameters serves as a primary diagnostic trait for species delimitation.
Human Relevance
One (Neduba extincta) is extinct due to human environmental disturbance; priorities have been suggested for the .
Similar Taxa
- Neoconocephalusboth are preyed upon by Sphex ichneumoneus, but Neoconocephalus are coneheads with different pronotal structure
- Orchelimumboth are used as by Sphex ichneumoneus, but Orchelimum are meadow katydids with different and song characteristics