Crickets
Superfamily: Grylloidea
Affected Plants:
Seedlings, Strawberries, Vegetables, LawnsDamage Type:
Tunnelling into foodPhysical Characteristics:
Long antennae; large hind legs for jumping; vary in color (brown, black, green); distinctive chirping.Control Method:
Karbaspray, ChlorpyrifosEnvironmental Impact:
Impact varies with productOrganic/Natural Control:
Diatomaceous earth, predator nematodesAbout this pest
The Black Garden Cricket: A Noisy Neighbor in South African Gardens
The Black Garden Cricket, with its sleek black coat and chirping serenades, might seem like a harmless addition to your South African garden. However, beneath the charming facade lies a potential pest capable of causing some unwanted headaches. Let’s explore its world to understand the why and how:
Physical Characteristics:
- Size: Around 20-25mm long, making them one of the larger cricket species in South Africa.
- Colour: Shiny black body with dark brown or reddish-brown legs and antennae.
- Body: Elongated and flattened, with prominent jumping legs and long antennae.
- Movement: Active at night, hopping and climbing readily. Males chirp loudly to attract mates.
Common South African Names:
- Swart kriek (Afrikaans) – Black cricket
- Gevleuelde kakkerlak (Afrikaans) – Winged cockroach (misnomer due to their jumping ability)
- Springkake (Afrikaans) – Jumping cockroach (another misnomer)
Why is the Black Garden Cricket a Pest?
- Plant feeders: They chew on leaves, flowers, and fruits, potentially damaging ornamental plants and vegetable gardens.
- Nuisance sounds: Males’ persistent chirping can be disruptive, especially at night.
- Indoor invasion: They can occasionally wander into houses seeking shelter or moisture, causing unwanted encounters.
Combatting Black Garden Crickets:
Natural methods:
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- Encourage natural predators: Birds, lizards, and small mammals help control cricket populations.
- Attract parasitic nematodes: Nematodes specifically target crickets in the soil, reducing their numbers naturally.
- Create cricket-friendly habitats: Provide alternative food sources like decaying organic matter to divert them from your plants.
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Physical barriers:
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- Fencing or netting: Surround vulnerable plants or seedlings to deter access.
- Sticky traps: Lay traps strategically to attract and capture crickets.
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Chemical control:
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- Insecticides: Use insecticides registered for cricket control as a last resort due to environmental impact and potential harm to beneficial insects.
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Remember:
- Black garden crickets are not always major pests, and their presence can even indicate a healthy ecosystem with diverse insect populations.
- Prioritize natural and organic methods whenever possible to protect the environment and beneficial insects.
- Consider the level of damage and nuisance before resorting to control measures.
By understanding the black garden cricket and taking appropriate measures, you can coexist with these nocturnal chirpers without letting them spoil your South African garden’s serenity.
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