Acrididae

Acrididae - Calliptamus italicus

Acrididae - Pezotettix giornae-5

Acrididae grasshopper-2

Caryanda spuria, Umbulharjo, 2014-04-16 12

Eucoptacra anguliflava female

Acrididae is a large family of Orthoptera, commonly known as the true grasshoppers. These insects are characterized by their robust bodies, powerful hind legs for jumping, and typically short antennae, distinguishing them from their relatives in the order Orthoptera, such as crickets and katydids, which have longer antennae. Acrididae are predominantly herbivorous and are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and agricultural fields, where they feed on leaves, stems, and seeds of various plants.

Description

Members of the Acrididae family vary greatly in size and coloration, but they generally share certain morphological features. They have a cylindrical body, a relatively small head with large eyes, and chewing mouthparts. Their hind legs are enlarged and adapted for jumping, a feature that aids in their mobility and escape from predators. The forewings, or tegmina, are usually narrow and leathery, serving as protection for the membranous hind wings, which are used for flight.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Acrididae consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Females lay eggs in the soil or in plant tissues, which hatch into nymphs. Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller and lack fully developed wings. Through a series of molts, nymphs grow and eventually metamorphose into adults. The duration of the life cycle varies among species and is influenced by environmental conditions.

Ecology and Behavior

Acrididae play significant roles in their ecosystems. As herbivores, they are primary consumers, converting plant materials into a form that can be utilized by predators and decomposers. However, some species can become pests, especially in agricultural settings, where large populations can cause extensive damage to crops.

Grasshoppers of the Acrididae family are also known for their ability to produce sounds, a behavior called stridulation, which is used for communication, especially during mating. This is achieved by rubbing their hind legs against the wings or the body.

Economic Importance

While many species of Acrididae are harmless, a few are notorious for their potential to form large swarms and become locusts, such as those in the genus Locusta. These swarms can devastate crops, leading to significant agricultural losses and food scarcity in affected regions.

Conservation

The conservation status of Acrididae species varies widely. While many species are common and not of concern, others are threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Conservation efforts are important to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Classification

The family Acrididae is divided into several subfamilies, which are further broken down into tribes and genera. This classification is based on morphological characteristics, such as the structure of the antennae, legs, and wings.