Melanoplus tequestae

Hubbell, 1932

tequestae scrub grasshopper, tequesta grasshopper

Melanoplus tequestae is a spur-throated grasshopper to Florida scrub . It is restricted to three counties in central Florida and is one of the more narrowly distributed members of the large Melanoplus. The has been studied for its mating , which involves male calling songs and visual .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Melanoplus tequestae: /mɛləˈnɒpləs tɛˈkwɛsti/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

to Florida scrub in Highlands, Orange, and Seminole counties; restricted distribution distinguishes it from most other Melanoplus which have broader ranges across North America. As a member of Melanoplinae, possesses a spur on the surface of the throat (spur-throated grasshopper), though specific diagnostic features for this species versus are not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Florida scrub, a xeric shrubland characterized by sandy soils, evergreen oaks, and sparse .

Distribution

to three counties in central Florida: Highlands, Orange, and Seminole counties.

Behavior

Males produce calling songs and engage in courtship involving visual and acoustic signals. Males approach females with specific behavioral displays during mating.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Melanoplus speciesM. tequestae is distinguished by its extremely restricted Florida scrub distribution; most occur across broader areas of western and central North America.

Tags

Sources and further reading