Crux | |
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Crux boudica | |
Scientific classification
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Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Orthoptera |
Suborder: | Ensifera |
Family: | Rhaphidophoridae |
Subfamily: | Macropathinae |
Genus: |
Crux Trewick, 2024 |
Species | |
See text |
Crux is a genus of cave wētā in the family Rhaphidophoridae. Two species are currently recognised, both of which are endemic to New Zealand.
The name is a reference to Crux, the constellation also known as the Southern Cross, which is prominent in the skies of New Zealand. [1]
The genus Crux was described by Steven A. Trewick in 2024, who chose Crux boudica to be the type species. [1] Trewick suggested that the small size of Crux was a reason why the genus had been previously overlooked. [2] Both members of the species are approximately 17–28 mm (0.67–1.10 in) in length, with antennae of the females being three times longer than their bodies. Members of Crux are medium-sized, dark brown, with a stocky body and short robust legs. [1] Crux most closely resembles the New Zealand species Talitrsopis sedilloti. [1]
The two species of Crux are found in the South Island and Stewart Island. [1]
Crux | |
---|---|
![]() | |
Crux boudica | |
Scientific classification
![]() | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Orthoptera |
Suborder: | Ensifera |
Family: | Rhaphidophoridae |
Subfamily: | Macropathinae |
Genus: |
Crux Trewick, 2024 |
Species | |
See text |
Crux is a genus of cave wētā in the family Rhaphidophoridae. Two species are currently recognised, both of which are endemic to New Zealand.
The name is a reference to Crux, the constellation also known as the Southern Cross, which is prominent in the skies of New Zealand. [1]
The genus Crux was described by Steven A. Trewick in 2024, who chose Crux boudica to be the type species. [1] Trewick suggested that the small size of Crux was a reason why the genus had been previously overlooked. [2] Both members of the species are approximately 17–28 mm (0.67–1.10 in) in length, with antennae of the females being three times longer than their bodies. Members of Crux are medium-sized, dark brown, with a stocky body and short robust legs. [1] Crux most closely resembles the New Zealand species Talitrsopis sedilloti. [1]
The two species of Crux are found in the South Island and Stewart Island. [1]