Trimerotropis fratercula
McNeill, 1901
pine bluffs grasshopper
Trimerotropis fratercula, the pine bluffs , is a -winged grasshopper in the . It is closely related to the -winged grasshopper (T. cyaneipennis), from which it is distinguished primarily by its or greenish-yellow hind rather than blue. The occurs in North America, with records from Wyoming and other western states. It inhabits rugged, mountainous terrain and canyons at moderate to high elevations.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Trimerotropis fratercula: /ˌtraɪmɛroʊˈtroʊpɪs frəˈtɜːrkjʊlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from the closely-related Trimerotropis cyaneipennis by or greenish-yellow hind (rather than or blue-green). The are narrow and speckled with , gray, and black, creating vague that provide cryptic when at rest on rocks or bare soil. The hind coloration and abdominal tint may also differ from T. cyaneipennis. are -sized, with males measuring approximately 25–35 mm and females 28–40 mm.
Habitat
Rugged, mountainous terrain and canyons at elevations between approximately 3,000 and 8,500 feet. Favors gravel roads, volcanic soils, and areas at the base of steep slopes. Associated with oak, pinyon-juniper, or pine forest .
Distribution
North America. Recorded from Wyoming, and occurs in southeast Wyoming, central Colorado, and much of eastern New Mexico where it replaces T. cyaneipennis. The range extends across western North America in appropriate mountainous .
Behavior
When in , produces a loud crackling sound () generated by the hind rubbing against the underside of the . This sound can be produced at will, allowing silent flight when desired. When at rest, individuals are highly cryptic and difficult to locate even when the landing site is known; may walk short distances after landing to enhance concealment.
Human Relevance
Not considered an agricultural or rangeland pest. Does not feed on or forage plants, and is regarded as a "wilderness" with minimal economic impact.
Similar Taxa
- Trimerotropis cyaneipennisClosely-related with which it forms a species pair; distinguished by versus /greenish-yellow hind , though T. cyaneipennis hind wings are not always obviously blue. The two species are largely parapatric, with T. fratercula replacing T. cyaneipennis in southeast Wyoming, central Colorado, and eastern New Mexico.