Xanthippus montanus
(Thomas, 1872)
sandhills band-wing grasshopper
Xanthippus montanus, the sandhills band-wing , is a of band-winged grasshopper in the Acrididae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to the early spring group of grasshoppers that overwinter as nymphs, with present early in the season.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Xanthippus montanus: /zænˈθɪpəs mɒnˈteɪnəs/
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Images
Distribution
North America. Distribution records include Montana.
Seasonality
Early spring . Overwinters as nymphs; present early in spring. Listed in the "very early nymphal and adult group" alongside Xanthippus corallipes, with large nymphs and adults present in early spring after in the nymphal stage.
Life Cycle
Overwinters in the nymphal stage rather than as . emerge early in spring. This two-year pattern (egg to nymph ) is shared with related in the .
Behavior
Ground-dwelling habits typical of band-winged grasshoppers (Oedipodinae). Basking in morning sun to elevate body temperature. Capable of jumping and flying to escape .
Similar Taxa
- Xanthippus corallipesCongeneric with similar early spring seasonal cycle and nymph strategy; both listed together in the very early nymphal and group
More Details
Taxonomic Authorship
First described by Thomas in 1872 as Oedipoda montana, later transferred to Xanthippus
Subfamily Characteristics
As a member of Oedipodinae (band-winged grasshoppers), possesses diagnostic characters including: height of carina of pronotum and number of ; position and length of lateral carinae; color patterns of hindlegs; variations in dark bands on and pronotum; and shape of foveolae