Names and Taxonomy
- Common Names:
- Synonyms:
- Order: Orthoptera (Grasshoppers, Locusts, and Crickets)
- Family: Gryllidae (Crickets)
- Genus Information: 6 species in NV, 12 in CA, 35 in US
Gryllus lineaticeps
Variable Field Cricket
Introduction:
This species exhibits phenotypic plasticity, meaning individuals can vary in wing length and flight muscle size, allowing some to fly and others to be flightless. Males produce calling songs to attract females, and the species is known for its loud, low-frequency songs in its habitat.
Life Cycle: Typically has two generations per year, overwintering as late-instar nymphs.
Size 0.6-1 inch (15-25 mm)
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are generally the ones that chirp to attract mates, while females possess the ovipositor to lay their eggs.
Metamorphosis: incomplete (egg, nymph, adult)
