Small, mysterious and freshly discovered: the ants cricket in Mölln!

Small, mysterious and freshly discovered: the ants cricket in Mölln!

The small ants cricket (Myrmecophilus acervorum) is currently causing excitement in Germany's wildlife. With a maximum size of only four millimeters, it is not only the smallest grasshopper in the country, but also has a remarkable lifestyle that makes it a real surprise guest with a sensational character. It was recently discovered in Schleswig-Holstein by animal ecologist Björn Schulz in a home garden in Mölln. Previously there were evidence in the neighboring Mecklenburg district of Ludwigslust-Parchim. This discovery is not a little catch, because the ants cricket is considered to be in need of heat and surprises with an unexpected north-wing spread, such as bild.de reports.

But what exactly is what is special about this tiny insect type? The ant crilling lives exclusively in the nests of domestic ants and has a very special stomach: it takes on the smell of her host animals in order to remain invisible to her. In addition, she does not do any damage in her habitat, but feeds on waste in the ants. This species is known for its sophisticated reproductive type - it increases through maids and therefore does not require a male. In fact, no male specimens have so far been proven, which also makes species an interesting research topic, such as Natur-in-nrw.

lifestyle and reproduction

The ants cricket has ideally adapted to its life in hidden. With its elliptical, compact body and the special coloring, it is perfectly camouflaged. Their reproduction takes place parthenogenetically, with eggs being stored individually at least 24 hours and need a development time of two years. This way of life leads to the assumption that the ants may occur more frequently due to its secret existence, as previously assumed, as described by the Wikipedia.

Your preferred habitat are heat -favored, forest -free areas such as dry grass, gardens or gravel pits. There are also some finds in North Rhine-Westphalia, most recently in Bochum and Breckerfeld, but the occurrence remains manageable. It also makes her lifestyle, which is dependent on co-existence with over 20 different types of ants

distribution and hazard

The ants cricket is widespread in Europe, but in Germany its occurrence is mainly limited to the east of the country. The northern distribution point extends to the Baltic Sea coast. In the red list of endangered species of Germany, it is classified with the status G, which means that a risk can be assumed, but the data situation is inadequate. These circumstances make the species particularly worthy of protection and require further research to better understand their population development.

The finds of the ants cricket are clearly a sign that domestic nature still has many secrets. It is to be hoped that these little beings will continue to have a good hand for their camouflage in secret and will surprise us with their existence.