Kaikoura Giant Weta vs Kentucky Cave Cricket
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Kaikoura Giant Weta | Kentucky Cave Cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Deinacrida parva | Ceuthophilus stygius |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Rhaphidophoridae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 13-25 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Caves |
| Diet | Herbivores | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - Kaikoura Range) | United States |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Kaikoura Giant Weta
One of the smaller species of giant weta, endemic to the Seaward Kaikoura Range in the South Island of New Zealand. Despite its name, it is only giant relative to most insects. It inhabits alpine herbfields and scrub near the treeline.
Did You Know?
Despite the species name 'parva' meaning small, this weta still dwarfs most European and North American orthopterans.
Kentucky Cave Cricket
A large cave cricket found throughout the cave systems of Kentucky and surrounding states. It has extremely long antennae and powerful jumping legs.
Did You Know?
It leaves caves at night to forage and brings nutrients back into the cave ecosystem.