Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Often considered a subfamily (Mogoplistinae) of family Gryllidae.
BugGuide follows the classification of
Orthoptera Species File, which treats the group as family Mogoplistidae.
Numbers
20 species in 4 genera in North America listed at
Singing Insects of North AmericaIdentification
body slender, wingless or with small wings, and covered with translucent scales that rub off easily
Cycloptillum - 17 species, southeastern and central U.S. (north to NY)
Hoplosphyrum - 1 species, southwestern U.S.
Cycloptiloides and Oligacanthopus are not yet represented on BugGuide - both are only found in Florida.
Range
mostly southern United States
Habitat
on bushes or under debris in sandy tropical/subtropical areas near water
Internet References
links to species accounts and
illustrated key to genera (Singing Insects of North America, U. of Florida)
classification plus common name reference [Scaly Crickets] and literature citations (Orthoptera Species File)
description and common name reference [Wingless Bush Crickets] (britannica.com)
