The Changa Mole Cricket, Scapteriscus didactylus (Latreille), a New World Pest Established in Australia (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae)

Abstract

The Changa mole cricket, Scapteriscus didactylus (Latreille), has been discovered in the Newcastle area, N.S.W. Careful check of government insect conditions revealed that it has been present in Australia since at least 1982. It is suspected that it was introduced through commerce, probably by ship. the cricket naturally occurs in northeastern South America, and Caribbean islands. It is a pest species of considerable note, causing damage to turf, pasture, rice and crops such as capsicum by feeding on seedlings above ground as well as on the roots of the plants. Its burrowing activities are a major problem on golf courses. Details on identification of the Changa, discussion of its potential as a pest and suggested procedures leading to its control and possible eradication are presented. Copyright © 1995, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved