Nelson Alpine Weta vs South African Cave Cricket
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Nelson Alpine Weta | South African Cave Cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Deinacrida tibiospina | Speleiacris tabulae |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Rhaphidophoridae |
| Size | 40-60 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Caves |
| Diet | Herbivores | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island, Nelson) | South Africa |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Vulnerable |
Nelson Alpine Weta
An alpine weta endemic to the mountains of the Nelson/Marlborough region in New Zealand's South Island. It shelters under rocks during the day and forages on alpine vegetation at night. Its tibial spines are particularly well developed.
Did You Know?
This species is named for the prominent spines on its tibia, which are used defensively when threatened.
South African Cave Cricket
A cave cricket endemic to caves on the Cape Peninsula of South Africa. It has reduced eyes and pale brown coloration.
Did You Know?
It is one of very few cave crickets known from the African continent.