Paraidemona fratercula
Hebard, 1918
Paraidemona fratercula is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae. It was originally described as Trimerotropis fratercula by McNeill before being transferred to Paraidemona. The species has been documented in eastern Wyoming and Texas, with records indicating a preference for open pine savannahs and mountain foothill . It is considered uncommon and not an economic pest.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Paraidemona fratercula: //ˌpæɹəˌaɪdəˈmoʊnə ˌfɹætərˈkjʊlə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a member of the spur-throated grasshopper group ( Melanoplinae), P. fratercula possesses a distinct spur or projection on the surface of the throat (). Distinguishing features from similar Paraidemona and Trimerotropis require examination of male genitalia and tegminal venation patterns. The species was historically confused with Trimerotropis species due to similar wing banding patterns and preferences.
Habitat
Open pine savannahs and mountain foothills. In Wyoming, it has been found in areas with scattered pine cover and grassy understory.
Distribution
Eastern Wyoming (north to Guernsey, south to Pine Bluffs area) and Texas. North American distribution appears restricted to the southern Great Plains and foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Seasonality
present from late July through August. In Wyoming, adult specimens have been collected as early as July 31.
Human Relevance
Not considered an economic pest in Wyoming. densities are low where it occurs.
Similar Taxa
- Trimerotropis fontanaSimilar preference for dry grasslands and sagebrush openings; historically congeneric
- Trimerotropis gracilisOverlaps in western Wyoming distribution and dry grassland ; adjacent in lists
- Paraidemona speciesCongeneric spur-throated grasshoppers requiring genitalic examination for definitive separation
Misconceptions
The was originally described under Trimerotropis and later transferred to Paraidemona, which may cause confusion in older literature. Some sources may still list it as Trimerotropis fratercula.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Trimerotropis fratercula McNeill, later transferred to Paraidemona based on morphological characters of the male genitalia and pronotal structure.