Melanoplus indicifer
Hubbell, 1933
spinecercus short-wing grasshopper, east coast scrub grasshopper
Melanoplus indicifer is a of spur-throated grasshopper to a restricted range in Florida. It inhabits scrub on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in Palm Beach County. The species is characterized by short wings, a trait reflected in one of its . Its limited distribution makes it vulnerable to habitat loss from development and fire suppression.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanoplus indicifer: //mɛˈlænoʊˌplʌs ˌɪndɪˈsɪfɜr//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Short-winged condition distinguishes this from many . As a member of Melanoplinae, it possesses a spur on the (the 'spur-throated' characteristic). Specific diagnostic features for field identification from other Florida Melanoplus species are not well documented in available sources.
Habitat
Florida scrub vegetation on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. This consists of dry, sandy uplands with scattered oaks, pines, and shrubs. The has been documented specifically in Palm Beach County.
Distribution
to Florida, United States. Restricted to the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in Palm Beach County.
Human Relevance
Restricted range makes this potentially vulnerable to destruction from urban development in the Palm Beach County area. Fire suppression in scrub habitats may also threaten by allowing vegetation to close the open conditions preferred by grasshoppers.
Similar Taxa
- MelanoplusOther Melanoplus in Florida share the spur-throated characteristic; M. indicifer is distinguished by its short wings and extremely restricted geographic range.