Horse Lubbers

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Taeniopoda: /ˌtiːniˈoʊpədə/

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Summary

Taeniopoda is a genus of horse lubbers, native to southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America, comprising approximately 12 described species, with the most noted being Taeniopoda reticulata. They have distinctive coloration, a gregarious nature during the nymph stage, and some interesting behaviors that make them appealing as pets.

Physical Characteristics

Large clumsy grasshoppers, usually yellow or at least yellowish and black in color with hind wings red bordered black, and tegmina with a netted pattern of black and yellow that follows the veins.

Identification Tips

Most individuals cannot fly, but some with longest wings can add distance to their jumps. Differentiated from Romalea primarily by the median ridge of the pronotum being more elevated and most often more even in color pattern.

Habitat

Found in various habitats, often associated with broad-leaved herbaceous and shrubby plants. Frequently seen on Mesquite (Prosopis species) and may wander on roads in large numbers.

Distribution

Southwestern United States (western Texas, southern New Mexico, southeastern Arizona) southward through Mexico and Central America.

Diet

Omnivorous, favoring broad-leaved herbaceous and shrubby plants. Often seen eating other smashed insects, including their own kind.

Life Cycle

Overwinter as eggs; nymphs are gregarious and start dark red and yellow, later black, red, and yellow (or orange), and finally black and yellow. Adults appear in summer and autumn.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive behaviors are not provided; however, nymphs undergo several molts prior to adulthood.

Predators

Aposematic coloration suggests that they are distasteful to predators, potentially reducing predation pressure.

Cultural Significance

Can be kept as pets and are considered interesting due to their personality; harmless and have a presence that can appear intimidating.

Health Concerns

Harmless insects, but capable of producing a nasty frothy material from their mesothoracic spiracles, although this is rare.

Evolution

Closely related to the genus Romalea; hybridization can occur between species of both genera in captivity.

Similar Taxa

• Romalea

Misconceptions

Although they may appear intimidating, they are harmless insects.

Tags

• Horse Lubbers
• Taeniopoda
• Grasshoppers