Crux is a genus of cave wētā in the family Rhaphidophoridae. Two species are currently recognised, both of which are endemic to New Zealand.
| 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 | |
Etymology
editThe name is a reference to Crux, the constellation also known as the Southern Cross, which is prominent in the skies of New Zealand.[1]
Taxonomy and morphology
editThe 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]
Distribution
editThe two species of Crux are found in the South Island and Stewart Island.[1]
Species
edit- Crux boudica Trewick, 2024
- Crux heggi Trewick, 2024
References
edit- ^ a b c d e 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.