Crux (insect)

Genus of orthopteran insects

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

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The 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

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The 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 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.[1] Crux most closely resembles the New Zealand species Talitropsis sedilloti.[1]

## Distribution

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The two species of Crux are found in the South Island and Stewart Island.[1]

## Species

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* Crux boudica Trewick, 2024
* Crux heggi Trewick, 2024

## Gallery

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* Crux boudica

* Crux heggi

## References

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1. ^ 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. PMID 39646017. Wikidata Q128095156.
2. ^ "Three new wētā species discovered, including one named after Boudica". Radio New Zealand. 30 July 2024. Retrieved 31 July 2024.

Taxon identifiers

Crux|

* Wikidata: Q127688900
* Wikispecies: Crux
* CoL: CGX7G
* iNaturalist: 1562674