Encoptolophus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Orthoptera
Suborder: Caelifera
Family: Acrididae
Subfamily: Oedipodinae
Tribe: Chortophagini
Genus: Encoptolophus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Encoptolophus: //ɛnˌkɒptəˈloʊfəs//

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

Images

Encoptolophus costalis - inat 245729711 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Clouded Grasshopper - Encoptolophus sordidus, Meadowood SRMA, Mason Neck, Virginia, October 30, 2020 (51398489159) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Clouded Grasshopper - Encoptolophus sordidus, Meadowood Farm SRMA, Mason Neck, Virginia (26940146039) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Encoptolophus is a genus of band-winged grasshoppers in the family Acrididae, comprising approximately eight described species. These insects are typically found in moist, grassy environments and exhibit distinct physical features such as the structure of their hind wings and color patterns.

Physical Characteristics

Adults range from 16 to 30 mm in length, with most averaging around 20 - 26 mm. Males are generally smaller than females. Hind tibiae can be blue, brownish, or nearly black, commonly with a darker area near the base. The pronotum has a moderately raised crest that is distinct, often notched once.

Identification Tips

Look for prominent large quadrate dark spots on the lower half of folded tegmina, and observe that hind wings lack bright colors, exhibiting dark clouding at the outer end instead of a bold dark cross band. The body is smoother compared to similar genera.

Habitat

Open, seasonally moist grassy environments that may be saline or alkaline, often with bare patches of ground.

Distribution

North America, primarily south of Canada.

Diet

Presumably mostly grasses.

Life Cycle

In colder regions, species overwinter as eggs. In southern areas, several species may produce multiple broods. Adults are commonly seen in summer.

Reproduction

Varies with species, but can be determined by the environmental conditions and availability of resources.

Evolution

The genus contains at least two distinctive groups that may be recognized as separate genera in the future.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Species of Encoptolophus could be confused with certain similar genera, particularly regarding the characteristics of hind wings and body shape.