Jerusalem Cricket – Stenopelmatus fuscus and other species

Jerusalem Cricket – Stenopelmatus fuscus Common Name: Jerusalem Cricket Latin Name: Stenopelmatus fuscus Appearance: Jerusalem Crickets are giant, heavy-bodied insects with a distinctive appearance. They have a round head and a stout, almost cylindrical body that can grow up to 5 cm long. They are usually yellowish-brown in color, with a pattern of dark stripes or spots on their thorax.

• Egg:Jerusalem Cricket eggs are deposited in the soil, usually in the fall. The female can lay up to 20 eggs at a time.
• Pupae:Jerusalem Crickets do not have a distinct pupal stage.
• Larva:The juvenile form of the Jerusalem Cricket is called a nymph. Nymphs resemble the adult form but are smaller and lack wings.
• Adults:Adult Jerusalem Crickets have wings but are poor fliers. They are nocturnal and are typically active at night.

Host plants: Jerusalem Crickets are generalist feeders and will consume various plants and insects. Territory: Jerusalem Crickets are found primarily in the western United States and Mexico. Damages caused by: Jerusalem Crickets are not considered significant agricultural pests, but they can damage gardens and ornamental plants by feeding on the roots. Life history and Habits: Jerusalem Crickets have a relatively long life cycle, taking up to two years to reach maturity. They are nocturnal and spend most of their time underground, feeding on roots and other underground plant parts. They are slow-moving and relatively harmless to humans, although they can bite if provoked. Jerusalem Crickets are known for their loud chirping, which they produce by rubbing their front legs together.