Buckellacris nuda
(Walker, 1889)
Buckell's Timberline Grasshopper
Buckellacris nuda is a of spur-throated grasshopper in the Acrididae, commonly known as Buckell's Timberline . The species was originally described by Walker in 1889 as Asemoplus nudus. It belongs to the Buckellacris, which is classified within the Melanoplinae and tribe Podismini. Two are recognized: B. n. nuda and B. n. relicta.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Buckellacris nuda: /bʊˌkɛl.əˈkrɪs ˈnuː.də/
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Identification
As a member of the spur-throated grasshopper group within Melanoplinae, this possesses a distinct spur or projection on the between the front legs. The specific epithet "nuda" (meaning bare or naked) may refer to reduced or absent surface structures, though detailed morphological descriptions are not readily available in the provided sources. The B. n. relicta was described by Rehn and Rehn in 1945, suggesting some geographic variation in .
Habitat
The "Timberline " implies association with high-elevation environments near timberline, though specific requirements are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
Recorded from Idaho and Montana in the northwestern United States. GBIF distribution records indicate presence in North America broadly.
Similar Taxa
- Other Melanoplinae speciesShare the spur-throated characteristic; B. nuda can be distinguished by its placement in the Buckellacris and its high-elevation distribution
- Buckellacris nuda nuda vs. B. n. relictaThe two differ in geographic distribution and presumably subtle morphological features, with relicta described separately by Rehn and Rehn in 1945
More Details
Taxonomic History
The has undergone taxonomic revision, originally described as Asemoplus nudus by Walker in 1889 before being transferred to Buckellacris. NCBI lists the authority as (Walker, 1889) while some sources cite 1898; the basionym confirms 1889 as the original publication date.
Subspecies
Two are recognized: the nominate form Buckellacris nuda nuda (Walker, 1889) and Buckellacris nuda relicta Rehn and Rehn, 1945. The latter subspecies name suggests a relictual or isolated .