Phalangacris alluaudi
Local name: Mahé Boulder Cricket
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mah%C3%A9_boulder_cricket
Overview
The Mahé boulder cricket is an insect species endemic to Mahé island in Seychelles. This species of cricket is only found in two localities, the Morne Seychellois National Park and "La Reserve". The species had not been recorded since 1909, until its rediscovery in 2014. It is a restricted range species, with an area of occupancy less than 10 square kilometres (3.9 sq mi) and with a very fragmented population.
Phalangacris alluaudi faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Madagascar. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and human encroachment. Invasive plant species are altering the native vegetation structure that this cricket depends on for shelter and breeding sites.
Habitat
This endemic Malagasy cricket inhabits dry deciduous forests and spiny thickets in southwestern Madagascar. It requires specific microhabitat conditions within native vegetation, particularly areas with appropriate ground cover and moisture levels for reproduction.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in GRYLLIDAE
Threatened in Seychelles
Frequently asked questions
Why is Mahé Boulder Cricket classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Mahé Boulder Cricket live?
What are the main threats to Mahé Boulder Cricket?
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