About Gryllodes sigillatus (Walker, 1869)
The tropical house cricket, scientifically known as Gryllodes sigillatus (Walker, 1869), is slightly smaller than its close relative the house cricket, reaching an adult length of 13–18 mm (0.51–0.71 in). These crickets are light yellowish tan in color, and have two thick black bands: one crosses the lower part of the thorax, and the other crosses the upper abdomen. Females look similar to males, but are wingless and have a long ovipositor extending from their rear. This species, also called decorated house cricket or banded cricket, is relatively new to the pet trade as feeder insects for pets. It is favored by many keepers because it has easier care requirements than the more common house cricket or black field cricket. Banded crickets are more active than other commonly sold feeder crickets, and have longer lifespans than the average house cricket. They also have lower chitin content than average crickets, which makes them easier for pets to digest. Additionally, tropical house crickets are immune to the CrPV virus. Their general care requirements are the same as those of the house cricket.
