Melanoplus cinereus
Scudder, 1878
grayish sagebrush grasshopper, Gray Sagebrush Grasshopper
Species Guides
3Melanoplus cinereus, commonly known as the grayish sagebrush , is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae. It is native to western North America and has been documented in California and Washington. The species is characterized by its association with sagebrush and its secretive , which makes it difficult to detect using standard sweep-net sampling methods. Two are recognized: M. c. cinereus and M. c. cyanipes.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanoplus cinereus: /məˈlænoʊpləs sɪˈnɛriəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
This can be distinguished from similar Melanoplus species by its grayish coloration and association with sagebrush vegetation. The species exhibits secretive , hiding within sagebrush plants, which differs from more conspicuous grassland-dwelling Melanoplus species. Accurate identification may require examination of male genitalia or other diagnostic features typical of the .
Habitat
Sagebrush-dominated environments. The has been specifically noted to hide within sagebrush vegetation, indicating a close association with this plant rather than open grasslands.
Distribution
Western North America. Documented distribution records include California and Washington. The is present in North America broadly, though specific range boundaries require further documentation.
Behavior
Hides in sagebrush vegetation, making it secretive and difficult to detect with standard sweep-net collecting techniques. This causes the to be underrepresented in standard surveys.
Human Relevance
Not considered an economically important pest . The species is classified among the 80-85 percent of species that are "nontargets" with respect to management, having no potential for economic harm and potentially providing ecological benefits.
Similar Taxa
- Hypochlora albaBoth share the trait of hiding in sagebrush and are underrepresented in standard sweep-net surveys due to their secretive in this vegetation type.
- Other Melanoplus speciesM. cinereus differs from many in its specific association with sagebrush rather than open grasslands, and its secretive contrasts with more active, easily sampled .
More Details
Subspecies
Two are recognized: Melanoplus cinereus cinereus Scudder, 1878 and Melanoplus cinereus cyanipes Scudder, 1897.
Survey Limitations
This is explicitly mentioned in survey documentation as being underrepresented in standard collections due to its habit of hiding in sagebrush. Standard APHIS survey protocols direct collectors away from atypical rangeland vegetation and toward areas with typical rangeland vegetation, further reducing detection probability for this sagebrush-associated species.