Achurum
Saussure, 1861
toothpick grasshoppers
Species Guides
3- Achurum carinatum(long-headed toothpick grasshopper)
- Achurum minimipenne(Tamaulipan Toothpick Grasshopper)
- Achurum sumichrasti(Sumichrast Toothpick Grasshopper)
Achurum is a of slant-faced grasshoppers in the Acrididae, commonly known as toothpick grasshoppers. The genus contains at least three described distributed across the southern United States and Mexico. These grasshoppers are noted for their slender, elongate bodies and cryptic coloration that provides camouflage against vegetation and substrates.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Achurum: /əˈkʊrəm/
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Identification
Achurum are distinguished by their extremely slender, elongate bodies and long, narrow —features that give them the 'toothpick grasshoppers.' The head is often pointed or carinate (keeled), and the body is cylindrical rather than robust. Species within the can be differentiated by details of head shape, pronotal structure, and wing length. Achurum carinatum has a distinctly keeled head; A. minimipenne has reduced wings; A. sumichrasti shows intermediate proportions.
Images
Habitat
occur in open, dry including grasslands, prairies, and clay or sand exposures. Achurum minimipenne is associated with the Tamaulipan thornscrub region. Achurum sumichrasti has been observed in Arizona grasslands. Substrates often include lichen-encrusted rock or clay surfaces where is effective.
Distribution
Recorded from the southern United States (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas, Arizona) through Mexico (northeastern and central regions) to Rica. Distribution varies by : A. carinatum ranges more broadly; A. minimipenne is restricted to the Tamaulipan region of Texas and adjacent Mexico; A. sumichrasti occurs from Arizona southward.
Behavior
Achurum sumichrasti has been observed exhibiting strong , remaining motionless to blend with surrounding vegetation and substrates. When disturbed, individuals may fly short distances, revealing hind wings that contrast with the cryptic forewings.
Similar Taxa
- ProrocoryphaAlso called 'toothpick grasshoppers' and share the slender body form; distinguished by differences in shape and male genitalia.
- LeptysmaAnother of slender grasshoppers with similar preferences; Achurum differs in structure and wing venation.
More Details
Species included
Three described : Achurum carinatum (Walker, 1870)—long-headed toothpick ; Achurum minimipenne Caudell, 1904—tamaulipan toothpick grasshopper; Achurum sumichrasti (Saussure, 1861)—sumichrast toothpick grasshopper.
Etymology
The 'toothpick ' refers to the extremely slender, cylindrical body and narrow that resemble a toothpick in proportion.