The captive rearing of threatened Orthoptera: a comparison of the conservation potential and practical considerations of two species' breeding programmes at the Zoological Society of London

The development of ex situ conservation work for Orthoptera is demonstrated by examples of two captive-breeding programmes at the Zoological Society of London. The field cricket Gryllus campestris and wart-biter bush cricket Decticus verrucivorus are both species that have been bred in captivity and reintroduced to field sites in attempts to strengthen dwindling wild populations. Despite a similar approach to both programmes, we have encountered significant differences in the practical applications of the captive management process for the two species. By reviewing these breeding programmes, we examine some of the practical considerations associated with ex situ orthopteran programmes and compare some of the different elements that can influence programme success.