Phaulotettix eurycercus
Hebard, 1918
Sotol Grasshopper
Phaulotettix eurycercus, commonly known as the sotol , is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae. The species is found in arid regions of North America, particularly in Texas and northeastern Mexico. It is associated with desert scrub and has been observed using sotol plants (Dasylirion) for shelter and possibly feeding. The species is flightless and belongs to a group of desert grasshoppers adapted to extreme heat conditions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phaulotettix eurycercus: /faʊloʊˈtɛtɪks ˌjʊəriˈsɜːrkəs/
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Identification
Phaulotettix eurycercus can be distinguished from similar grasshoppers by its association with sotol plants and its flightless condition. It belongs to the Phaulotettix, which contains flightless desert grasshoppers. Specific morphological diagnostic features are not well documented in available sources.
Habitat
Aridland scrub, desert environments. Has been observed in the Big Bend region of Texas. Associated with sotol (Dasylirion) plants, where individuals shelter beneath leaves during midday heat.
Distribution
North America: Texas (United States) and northeastern Mexico.
Host Associations
- Dasylirion - shelterObserved roosting on undersides of leaves during heat of day
Behavior
Flightless. Has been observed seeking shade beneath sotol leaves during midday heat, clustering in groups of 40-50 individuals with other flightless desert grasshoppers.
Similar Taxa
- AgroecotettixBoth are flightless desert grasshoppers found in similar ; Agroecotettix are often found on thorny leguminous shrubs rather than sotol
- NetrosomaOther flightless desert grasshoppers observed in mixed on sotol plants in Big Bend region