Dracotettix
Bruner, 1889
dragon lubbers
Species Guides
1- Dracotettix monstrosus(Gray Dragon Lubber)
Dracotettix is a of flightless grasshoppers commonly known as dragon lubbers, placed in the Romaleidae. The genus contains at least three described , including the notably large and distinctive Dracotettix monstrosus. These insects are characterized by their robust, heavily built bodies and reduced wings. They are native to western North America, with records from California and northwestern Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dracotettix: /ˌdrækoʊˈtɛtɪks/
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Identification
Dracotettix can be distinguished from other romaleid grasshoppers by their large, bulky bodies, greatly reduced or absent wings rendering them flightless, and often strikingly or sculptured . The name references their dragon-like appearance. Dracotettix monstrosus in particular is noted for its exceptional size and grotesque, heavily armored compared to .
Images
Distribution
Western North America: California (United States) and northwestern Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- RomaleaBoth are large, flightless romaleid grasshoppers with reduced wings, but Romalea () occurs in the southeastern United States and has distinct color patterns and body proportions.
More Details
Etymology
The name combines Latin 'draco' (dragon) with '-tettix' (from Greek tettix, meaning or ), referencing the formidable, dragon-like appearance of these insects. The epithet 'monstrosus' of the type species emphasizes its unusually large and grotesque form.
Taxonomic note
Some sources (including iNaturalist and older Wikipedia entries) list Dracotettix in Acrididae, but current classifications place it in Romaleidae based on phylogenetic studies of relationships.