Melanoplus apalachicolae
Hubbell, 1932
Apalachicola short-wing grasshopper, Apalachicola grasshopper
Melanoplus apalachicolae is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae, Melanoplinae. It was described by Hubbell in 1932. The species is known from the Apalachicola region of Florida and is characterized by reduced wing development, consistent with its referencing short wings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanoplus apalachicolae: /mɛləˈnɒpləs ˌæpəˈlætʃɪˌkoʊli/
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Identification
The specific epithet and indicate reduced wing development (short-wing or brachypterous condition), distinguishing it from fully winged Melanoplus . As a member of Melanoplinae, it possesses a spur on the between the front legs. Formal diagnostic features require examination of .
Distribution
Known from Florida, specifically the Apalachicola region as indicated by the specific epithet. Distribution records confirm presence in North America with specific locality in Florida.
Similar Taxa
- Melanoplus bruneriBoth are spur-throated grasshoppers in the same , but M. bruneri is fully winged and occurs in western North America rather than Florida.
- Melanoplus angustipennisAnother short-winged Melanoplus , but distinguished by geographic range and specific wing reduction patterns.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Described by T.H. Hubbell in 1932, with the specific epithet referencing the Apalachicola region of Florida. The epithet is sometimes misspelled in literature, but the accepted form is 'apalachicolae'.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN. Limited observation records (5 observations in iNaturalist as of source date) suggest it may be uncommon or underreported, possibly due to restricted range in the Florida panhandle region.