Cascade Timberline Grasshopper

Prumnacris rainierensis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Orthoptera
Suborder: Caelifera
Family: Acrididae
Subfamily: Melanoplinae
Tribe: Podismini
Genus: Prumnacris
Species: rainierensis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Prumnacris rainierensis: /ˈprʌmnəˌkrɪs raɪˈnɪərɛnsɪs/

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Summary

Prumnacris rainierensis (Cascade Timberline Grasshopper) is a species of spur-throated grasshopper found in the Pacific Northwest. It is characterized by its elongate tegmina and coloration, and is associated with alpine meadows.

Physical Characteristics

Small with tiny elongate tegmina (front wings). Upper surface of the body is lighter and more even in color, often with barely visible dorso-lateral yellow stripes.

Identification Tips

If tegmina are missing, it can be confused with Buckellacris nuda, but differs in geographic occurrence and color pattern. Key identification features also include male cerci thickness and the continuous shape of the dark stripe along the pronotum.

Habitat

Near timberline in Oregon and Washington Cascades, possibly into southern British Columbia.

Distribution

Pacific Northwest United States, particularly in the Cascades.

Diet

Said to be associated with Lupinus (lupine), possibly as a food source.

Ecosystem Role

May play a role in the ecosystem by affecting the vegetation structure through feeding on grasses and plants.

Economic Impact

Described as numerous in areas where they were destroying grass and small plants, indicating a potential negative impact on local vegetation.

Evolution

Very similar and closely related to Buckellacris; part of a group of spur-throated grasshoppers.