Insecta Gryllotalpa, commonly known as mole crickets or "chicharra del suelo" in the Comunidad Valenciana, is a notable species within the fauna of this region. Known for their unique appearance and underground lifestyle, these insects are fascinating creatures of the order Orthoptera.

Mole crickets are characterized by their distinctive features:

• Appearance: They have a robust, elongated body ranging in colors from brown to dark brown. Their forelimbs are highly specialized for digging, resembling those of moles – hence their common name.
• Size: Adult mole crickets can grow up to 5 centimeters in length, making them one of the larger insects in their habitat.
• Habitat: Found mostly underground, they prefer moist, sandy, or loamy soils where they can excavate extensive tunnel systems. These tunnels facilitate their search for food and provide protection from predators.
• Behavior: Primarily nocturnal, mole crickets are known for their subterranean activities. Males are notable for the sounds they produce, which resemble a quiet, continuous buzzing, used to attract females.
• Diet: They are omnivorous, feeding on organic material in the soil, including plant roots and small insects.

The presence of Gryllotalpa in the Comunidad Valenciana contributes to the biodiversity of the region. While they are beneficial for soil aeration due to their tunneling activity, they can also become pests in agricultural settings by damaging crops through their feeding habits.