Melanoplus ordwayae
Deyrup, 1997
Trail Ridge Scrub Grasshopper, Ordway Melanoplus Grasshopper
Melanoplus ordwayae is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae, described by Deyrup in 1997. It is to Florida, specifically associated with the scrub of the Lake Wales Ridge region. The species is known from very few observations and is considered rare and potentially threatened by habitat loss. Its references the Trail Ridge, a prominent geologic feature in its range.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanoplus ordwayae: /mɛˈlænoʊpləs ˈɔrdweɪi/
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Identification
As a member of the Melanoplus , it possesses the characteristic spur on the (throat) between the front legs, distinguishing it from non-spur-throated grasshoppers. Specific diagnostic features separating it from other Florida Melanoplus , particularly the sympatric M. keeleri and M. differentialis, have not been published in accessible sources. The species was described based on morphological differences from related , but these characters require examination of or original description.
Habitat
to Florida scrub on the Lake Wales Ridge, a series of ancient sand dunes characterized by well-drained, nutrient-poor sands. The occupies xeric oak scrub and rosemary scrub , vegetation types maintained by periodic fire and increasingly fragmented by development.
Distribution
to Florida, United States. Known from the Lake Wales Ridge region in central Florida, specifically from Polk and Highlands counties. The range is restricted to relict scrub patches on this geologic formation.
Human Relevance
The is of conservation concern due to its restricted range and ongoing destruction. Florida scrub habitat has been reduced to approximately 15% of its historical extent, and remaining patches are fragmented. The species has been discussed in conservation contexts regarding arthropods of the Lake Wales Ridge, though it has not been formally listed under state or federal statutes.
Similar Taxa
- Melanoplus keeleriOverlapping distribution in Florida; both are spur-throated grasshoppers in the same , requiring careful examination of male genitalia or other subtle morphological characters for separation.
- Melanoplus differentialisOccurs in Florida and similar in general appearance; differentiated by preference ( occupies disturbed areas rather than pristine scrub) and structural features.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Mark Deyrup in 1997, making it one of the more recently described North American Melanoplus . The specific epithet honors an individual (likely Ordway), though the etymology is not documented in widely available sources.
Conservation status
Not formally listed under the U.S. Act or Florida state regulations, but included in discussions of Lake Wales Ridge conservation. The entire scrub is designated as a priority for conservation.