Numbers
Singing Insects of North America lists approximatley 25 genera.
(1)
Capinera
(2) lists 122 North American species in this subfamily.
Identification
Usually have short wings, brown or black coloration. Pronotum usually shield-like, extends back over wings. Resemble robust crickets. True "shieldbacks", e.g., Atlanticus, have reduced wings, especially in females, and are flightless.
Range
Most genera (21 or so) in western North America. Four genera in east, Atlanticus is widespread.
Habitat
Varied: open country, croplands, a few in forests
Food
Some species are active predators of other insects. Many also eat plant material and scavenge dead insects.
Remarks
Formerly called subfamily Decticinae. May bite if handled. In Europe, called "Wart Biters". Some species are pests of crops, such as the "Mormon Cricket", Anabrus simplex.
Print References
Capinera, pp. 184-191, plates 41-42
(2)
Arnett, pp. 163-164, figs. 11.19--Anabrus, 11.2--Atlanticus, 11.21--Peranabrus, 11.22--Hubbellia.
(3)
Helfer, pp. 281-303, figs. 437-481 illustrates several genera.
(4)Internet References
key to Eastern genera,
species list--has links to several accounts with photos
Insects of Cedar Creek--Minnesota, only Atlanticus is listed
Contributed by
Cotinis on 16 February, 2004 - 12:32pm
Last updated 12 January, 2006 - 12:12pm
