Band-winged Grasshoppers

Oedipodinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oedipodinae: /ˌiːdɪˈpɒdɪniː/

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

Images

Xanthippus corallipes by Calibas. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
Xanthippus corallipes P1470217a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
PSM V53 D686 Coral winged locust in flight by Unknown authorUnknown author. Used under a Public domain license.
Oedipodinae P1380821a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Xanthippus montanus - inat 62536351 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Nevada red-winged grasshopper (side) - Cratypedes lateritius (46397739431) by Yellowstone National Park. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Oedipodinae, commonly known as band-winged grasshoppers, is a subfamily of grasshoppers recognized for their distinctive wing patterns and widespread distribution. They inhabit primarily xeric areas and have various species that are considered economically significant as locusts.

Physical Characteristics

Most species have a dark band crossing the hind wing, often the basal part of the wing is colored. Some species have entirely dark or clear hind wings and a median ridge present on the pronotum.

Identification Tips

The placement and shape of the dark band on hind wings, along with the color of the wing base, are helpful in identifying species. The presence of stridulatory pegs on the front wings assists in distinguishing them from related taxa.

Habitat

Primarily inhabit xeric weedy fields.

Distribution

World-wide, except in polar regions.

Diet

Herbivorous, primarily feeding on a variety of grasses and other herbaceous plants.

Predators

Birds, mammals, and other predatory insects may prey upon band-winged grasshoppers. The defense mechanism includes leaping and revealing bright colors to confuse predators.

Ecosystem Role

Act as herbivores and can impact plant communities, while also serving as prey for various predators.

Economic Impact

Some species, such as Locusta migratoria, are considered important locusts due to their potential for agricultural damage and economic impact during swarming events.

Evolution

Recent molecular studies suggest that Oedipodinae and Acridinae are closely related and may form a single clade.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Oedipodinae has historically been confused in literature with various other grasshopper families and subfamilies, particularly with Acridinae due to overlapping characteristics.

Tags

  • Oedipodinae
  • Band-winged Grasshoppers
  • Insects
  • Orthoptera