Southern Mole Cricket, Scapteriscus borellii,
Tawny Mole Cricket, Scapteriscus vicinus
(Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae)
These species of mole cricket were introduced to the southeastern United States about a century ago and have caused serious plant damage since their introduction. These species are distributed throughout the southeastern U.S. and are quite similar in appearance. They overwinter in the adult and nymphal stages, and eggs are usually deposited in April or May. There is usually one generation per year but two generations may occur in southern Florida. Eggs are deposited in the soil adjacent to one of the tunnels that were formed by the adult. Eggs are usually gray to brown. Nymphs are brown in color and look like a smaller version of the adult, lacking fully developed wings. The adults have enlarged front legs that aid in the digging/foraging process. Distinguishing the two species usually requires an expert or trained specialist. A third species, the shortwinged mole cricket, Scapteriscus abbreviatus, is also an introduced pest, but mostly on turfgrass and seldom on vegetables. The eggs of all three species are very similar.
The southern mole cricket feeds mostly on other insects but will also feed on plants, while the tawny mole cricket feeds strictly on plants. The southern and tawny mole cricket are often pests of turf and lawns but also attack many vegetable crops. Damage is usually done to young seedlings, and girdling may be noticed in some situations. Natural enemies are present but management is also achieved by the use of cultural practices and insecticides.
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Pest mole crickets found in Florida: shortwinged mole
cricket, Scapteriscus abbreviatus (left); tawny mole cricket,
S. vicinus (center); and southern mole cricket, S. borellii.
(Photographer: L. Buss, University of Florida)
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Copyright © 2005 University of Florida
