Raspy Crickets

Gryllacrididae, commonly known as leaf-rolling crickets or raspy crickets, is a family within the order Orthoptera, characterized by their robust bodies, long antennae, and absence of wings in many species. These insects are predominantly nocturnal and are found in diverse habitats ranging from forests to caves across various regions, particularly in tropical and subtropical zones. Gryllacridids are unique for their behaviors; some species are known to roll leaves into shelters using silk produced by specialized glands, a rare trait among Orthoptera. They are omnivorous, feeding on a mix of plant material, fungi, and small invertebrates, which makes them versatile in their ecological roles. Despite their name, they do not produce the chirping sounds typical of other crickets; instead, they are relatively silent, adding to their elusive nature. Gryllacrididae play a critical role in the ecosystems they inhabit, participating in nutrient recycling and serving as prey for a variety of larger predators.