| 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.
Etymology
The name is a reference to Crux, the constellation also known as the Southern Cross, which is prominent in the skies of New Zealand.
Taxonomy and morphology
The genus Crux was described by Steven A. Trewick in 2024, who chose Crux boudica to be the type species. Trewick suggested that the small size of Crux was a reason why the genus had been previously overlooked. Both members of the genus 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. Crux most closely resembles the New Zealand species Talitropsis sedilloti.
Distribution
The two species of Crux are found in the South Island and Stewart Island.
Species
- Crux boudica Trewick, 2024
- Crux heggi Trewick, 2024
Gallery
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Crux boudica
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Crux heggi
References
- ^ Trewick, Steven A. (19 July 2024). "Two new genera of tokoriro (Orthoptera: Rhaphidophoridae: Macropathinae) from Aotearoa New Zealand". Zootaxa. 5481 (5): 531–546. doi:10.11646/ZOOTAXA.5481.5.3. ISSN 1175-5334. Wikidata Q128095156.
- "Three new wētā species discovered, including one named after Boudica". Radio New Zealand. 30 July 2024. Retrieved 31 July 2024.
| Taxon identifiers | |
|---|---|
| Crux | |