Locusta migratoria migratorioides

Definition

A subspecies of the migratory locust (Locusta migratoria) in the family Acrididae, distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and historically responsible for major locust plagues in the region. This subspecies exhibits density-dependent phase polyphenism, with solitary and gregarious morphs differing in coloration, morphology, and behavior. The gregarious phase forms cohesive swarms capable of long-distance migration, causing significant agricultural damage to crops including millet, sorghum, and maize.

Etymology

Latin locusta 'locust' + migratoria 'migratory' + migratorioides 'migratory-like', referring to its wandering swarming behavior

Example

Outbreaks of Locusta migratoria migratorioides in the Sahel during the 1940s–1980s prompted the establishment of international locust control organizations and early warning systems still in use today.

Synonyms

• African migratory locust

Related Terms

• Locusta migratoria
• phase polyphenism
• gregarious phase
• solitary phase
• Acrididae
• locust plague
• Schistocerca gregaria
• density-dependent phenotypic plasticity
• Integrated Pest Management

Usage Notes

Distinguished from the Oriental migratory locust (L. m. manilensis) and other subspecies by geographic range and subtle morphometric differences. The subspecies epithet is sometimes misspelled 'migratoroides'. Population dynamics are closely tied to rainfall patterns and vegetation greenness in semi-arid zones.