Grasshoppers

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Caelifera: //kaɪˈlɪfərə//

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Summary

Caelifera, commonly known as grasshoppers, comprise a diverse group of insects within the order Orthoptera. They are characterized by their short antennae and chisel-shaped ovipositors, primarily herbivorous habits, and significant ecological and agricultural roles.

Physical Characteristics

Grasshoppers typically have a stout body shape with long hind legs adapted for jumping. Their ovipositors, which are used for laying eggs, are chisel-shaped, reflecting the suborder's name which means 'chisel-bearing'.

Identification Tips

To identify members of Caelifera, look for short antennae compared to the Ensifera, stout body, and distinctive ovipositors. They are generally more robust than crickets.

Habitat

Caelifera are found in a variety of habitats, primarily in tropical environments but also in temperate regions; they prefer areas rich in vegetation for feeding.

Distribution

Globally, Caelifera are distributed mainly in tropical regions but have members across all continents except Antarctica; approximately 2,400 valid genera with around 11,000 known species.

Diet

Almost exclusively herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, and other plant material. Some may scavenge on dead plant and animal material.

Life Cycle

Grasshoppers undergo incomplete metamorphosis, with eggs hatching into nymphs that resemble adults but lack fully developed wings. They grow through several molts before becoming adults.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves females laying eggs in moist soil or plant tissue, usually creating egg pods that overwinter before hatching in favorable conditions.

Predators

Many birds, mammals, and insects, including spiders and predatory wasps, are natural predators of grasshoppers.

Ecosystem Role

Caelifera play a significant role in terrestrial ecosystems as herbivores, influencing plant community dynamics and serving as prey for various predators.

Economic Impact

Some species are significant agricultural pests, impacting crops and natural vegetation, particularly locust species that can form swarms.

Collecting Methods

• Sweep nets
• Hand collection
• Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Pinning
• Freezing

Evolution

The evolutionary divergence of the Caelifera from the Ensifera is estimated to have occurred no more recently than the Permo-Triassic boundary, with the earliest recognizable fossils appearing in the late Permian period.

Similar Taxa

• Ensifera (crickets)
• Tetrigoidea (ground hoppers)

Misconceptions

Caelifera should not be confused with Ensifera; while both are suborders of Orthoptera, they have distinct morphological features, particularly in antennae length and body structure.

Tags

• Grasshoppers
• Orthoptera
• Caelifera
• Insect
• Herbivore