Description
The Parktown prawn is one of the larger insects found in Johannesburg homes. A large specimen may grow to be 10 cm (3.9 in) or more, with long whip-like antennae extending to 10 cm (3.9 in), but are usually around 4 cm (1.6 in) to 5 cm (2.0 in) in length, with 2 cm (0.79 in) antennae. The exoskeleton is orange to light brown, with darker brown or black stripes along the thorax and abdomen, which gives it a toxic look to would-be aggressors. The legs have downward-facing hooked barbs, which allow it climb up walls and trees. A large specimen can jump more than a metre high.
The male insect sports a strong set of mandibles, although the need for them is not fully known, other than for use in self-defence against other males. The female has a well-developed ovipositor, through which she will lay between 80 and 200 eggs during mating season in damp or wet topsoil.
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