Jerusalem Cricket aka Potato Bug
The name "potato bug" or "Jerusalem cricket" can be confusing. These insects don't eat potatoes, and they are not from Jerusalem. Potato bugs are not poisonous, but they have strong jaws that can cause you to shriek in pain if bitten. Jerusalem crickets use their strong jaws to dig into the earth. You can find more information via the link for Jerusalem Cricket aka potato bug.
Characteristics
Size: 2.5” (6 cm)
Color: Orange and black stripes
Habits: Potato bugs feed on dead roots, decaying plant matter, and other organic material. Despite their name, potato bugs don't give any preference to eating potatoes.
One of the reasons gardeners try to eradicate Jerusalem crickets from their land is that they can be harmful to growing plants, especially young ones. They love to suck the juices from the leaves and stems of fruits and vegetables. This behavior can affect the growth of plants as the cricket leaves its toxic saliva behind. This saliva only causes harm to plants, but as potato bugs don't have poison glands, they are not venomous.
