This subfamily is represented in the United States by a single species, Meconema thalassinum, introduced from Europe. About 200 species occur worldwide, including three that are known to make wholly ultrasonic songs--that is, the songs can only be heard by human ears with the help of an ultrasonic detector.
The U.S. species has no male stridulatory apparatus of the usual kind. There are, however, minute teeth on the forewings that may substitute in a quiet way. In addition it has another method of calling, as indicated by its common name, drumming katydid.
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