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7 Ätliga insekter att söka föda i öknen för att överleva

When it comes to surviving in the harsh conditions of the desert, knowledge is your best ally.

Medan många människor tänker på växter eller djur när de överväger matkällor, edible insects offer a nutritious and sustainable option.

Här är en lista över sju ätbara insekter som du kan hitta i USA:s öknar, tillsammans med tips om hur du identifierar och förbereder dem för dina överlevnadsbehov.

1. Skorpioner

Skorpioner are commonly found in the Sonoraöknen, particularly in Arizona and California.

These distinctive creatures are easily recognizable by their pincers and long tails with stingers. They often hide under rocks or logs during the day.

To prepare scorpions, skewer them and roast or fry them over an open flame. Cooking neutralizes their venom, making them safe to eat while providing a crunchy snack rich in protein and minerals.

Desert Scorpion
A desert scorpion.

2. Crickets

Crickets thrive in various desert regions, inklusive Mojaveöknen and Sonoran Desert.

These small, jumping insects are typically green or brown and can often be heard chirping at night.

Crickets can be eaten raw or cooked; roasting them enhances their flavor and texture, making them a delicious source of protein.

Jerusalem Cricket (Ammopelmatus fuscus). Saguaro nationalpark, Arizona
Jerusalem Cricket (Ammopelmatus fuscus). Saguaro nationalpark, Arizona

3. Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are prevalent in the Great Basin Desert and parts of the Sonoran Desert. Look for their long hind legs and vibrant colors, as they often blend into their surroundings.

Similar to crickets, grasshoppers can be consumed raw or cooked.

Frying or roasting them brings out their nutty flavor, making them a tasty addition to your survival diet.

Desert Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea microptera)
Desert Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea microptera)

4. June Bugs (Phyllophaga spp.)

June bugs are commonly found in the Chihuahuanöknen and parts of the Sonoran Desert.

These shiny beetles have round bodies that make them easily recognizable.

June bugs can be eaten whole after roasting; their larvae (grubs) are also edible and considered a delicacy by some cultures.

June Bugs (Phyllophaga spp.)
June Bug (Phyllophaga spp.)

5. Centipedes

Centipedes inhabit various desert environments, including the Mojave Desert and Sonoran Desert.

They are identifiable by their long bodies and numerous legs, often hiding under rocks or debris.

While less commonly consumed than other insects, centipedes can be cooked to provide a unique source of nutrition.

Centipede
A centipede.

6. Termites

Termites are abundant in many desert regions, especially during warmer months when they swarm.

These small insects can be found near decaying wood or underground nests.

Termites are high in protein and can be eaten raw or roasted over a fire for a crunchy snack.

Termites and termite queen inside a nest.
Termites and termite queen inside a nest.

7. Myror

Certain species of ants found in desert areas, such as leafcutter ants and harvester ants, are edible and can provide a good source of protein.

Look for them near plants or trails where they gather food.

Ants have a tangy flavor that varies by species; they can be eaten raw or roasted for added crunch.

California Harvester Ant (Pogonomyrmex californicus)
California Harvester Ant (Pogonomyrmex californicus). Photographed in Voorhis Ecological Reserve near Pomona, CA, USA. Photography by Curtis Clark

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