Tettigidea
Scudder, 1862
groundhoppers, pygmy grasshoppers
Species Guides
4- Tettigidea acuta(acute pygmy grasshopper)
- Tettigidea armata(armored pygmy grasshopper)
- Tettigidea lateralis(black-sided pygmy grasshopper)
- Tettigidea prorsa(cone-head pygmy grasshopper)
Tettigidea is a of pygmy grasshoppers in the Tetrigidae, tribe Batrachideini. The genus contains at least 40 described distributed across the Americas, from the United States through Mexico to South America. Members are characterized by their small size, cryptic coloration, and the distinctive pronotum that extends backward over the .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tettigidea: /tɛ.tɪˈdʒiː.deɪə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
in Tettigidea are distinguished from other tetrigids by their small size and pronotal . Tettigidea lateralis (black-sided pygmy grasshopper) exhibits bold white femoral markings contrasting with otherwise cryptic coloration. The pronotum is relatively short compared to some other pygmy . Females possess a notably short pronotum. have reduced wings that do not extend to the tip of the .
Images
Habitat
Found in diverse including open woodlands, dry dolomite glades, and areas near streams and wet areas. Tettigidea lateralis has been observed in dry dolomite glade habitats in Missouri.
Distribution
Distributed across the Americas from the United States (including Alabama, Arizona, Missouri) through Mexico to South America (Brazil, Argentina).
Behavior
Exhibits cryptic , remaining motionless when disturbed rather than fleeing immediately. Tettigidea lateralis was observed sitting motionless when placed on barren substrate, suggesting reliance on camouflage over active escape.
Similar Taxa
- ParatettixAnother of pygmy grasshoppers in Tetrigidae with similar small size and pronotal extension, but differs in pronotum length and wing development.
- NomotettixSmall pygmy with reduced wings, distinguished from Tettigidea by pronotal shape and proportions.