Myrmecophilidae
Guides
Myrmecophilus
ant crickets
Myrmecophilus is a genus of minute crickets commonly known as ant crickets, containing the majority of species in the family Myrmecophilidae. These insects are obligate myrmecophiles, living exclusively within ant colonies. Species vary in size from less than 1.5 mm to 4.7 mm, generally correlating with the body size of their host ant species. The genus has a worldwide distribution with numerous described species across Europe, Asia, North America, and other regions.
Myrmecophilus manni
Desert Ant Cricket, Mann's Ant Cricket
Myrmecophilus manni is a small ant cricket species in the family Myrmecophilidae, commonly known as the Desert Ant Cricket or Mann's Ant Cricket. Like other members of its genus, it lives in close association with ant colonies, where it feeds on ant secretions and nest materials. The species occurs in arid and semi-arid regions of western North America, from southern Washington through Oregon, California, Nevada, and Arizona. Adult specimens typically measure under 5 millimeters in length, with reduced eyes and elongated antennae adapted for life in subterranean ant nests.