Wart-Biter Cricket Decticus Verrucivorus Female
High Resolution JPEG Picture of Description: Adult wart-biters are 31–82 millimeters, with females being significantly larger than males. They are typically dark green in colour, usually with dark brown blotches on the pronotum and wings (a dark brown morphotype also occurs). The female has a long and slightly up curved ovipositor. The wart-biter has a song consisting of a rapidly repeated series of short bursts of clicks, sometimes lasting for several minutes. Wart-biters normally move about by walking; they rarely fly, except when frightened. Most can only fly 3 to 4 meters at a time. Habitat: The species is found in calcareous grassland and heathland habitats. Diet: The species is omnivorous. Plants eaten include knapweed, nettles, bedstraws; the species also eats insects, including other grasshoppers. Life cycle: The wart-biter lays its eggs in the soil; these eggs normally hatch after two winters. It then passes through seven instar stages between April and June. The adult stage is reached in the beginning of July. Wart-biter populations peak in late July and early August. Newly hatched Decticus are encased in a sheath to facilitate their trip to the soil surface, the sheath holding the legs and antennae safely against the body while burrowing upwards. A neck which can in turn be inflated and deflated, enlarges the top of its tunnel, easing its passage upwards. Status and distribution: This species occurs throughout continental Europe, except the extreme south, ranging from southern Scandinavia to Spain, Italy, and Greece. It is also found in temperate Asia, as far east as China. Geographic features such as mountains have fragmented the species, leading to a wide range of forms and numerous subspecies. Conservation: The population of wart-biters has declined in many areas of northern Europe. In Britain and the Netherlands, it is threatened with extinction (source Wikipedia). This Picture is made during a Vacation in Bulgaria in May 2018.
This image showcases a female Wart-Biter Cricket (Decticus verrucivorus), emphasizing its distinct features and habitat. The photograph captures the intricate details of its body, showcasing the unique coloration and textures that define this species. The Wart-Biter Cricket is known for its loud mating calls, which are often heard in meadows and grasslands during the summer months. This image serves as a valuable resource for entomologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
This image can be utilized in various educational settings, such as textbooks, online courses, or presentations focused on entomology and biodiversity. Additionally, it is suitable for websites and blogs discussing insects, wildlife conservation, or ecological studies. Graphic designers may incorporate this image into infographics, social media posts, or educational worksheets to illustrate concepts related to insect species or environmental impact.
