Neotettix nullisinus
(Hancock, 1918)
sinusless pygmy grasshopper
Neotettix nullisinus, known as the sinusless pygmy , is a small orthopteran in the Tetrigidae. The specific epithet "nullisinus" refers to the absence of a sinus (a notch or indentation) in the pronotum, a diagnostic feature of this . It belongs to a of ground-dwelling pygmy grasshoppers characterized by their elongated pronotum that extends backward over the . The species has been documented in Texas and is considered part of the North American pygmy grasshopper fauna.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neotettix nullisinus: //niːoʊˈtɛtɪks ˌnʌlɪˈsaɪnəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from by the absence of a sinus in the margin of the pronotum; the "nullisinus" (Latin: nullus = none, sinus = curve/fold) directly references this trait. In Tetrigidae, pronotal sinuses are often used to separate , making this a reliable diagnostic character. The pronotum extends backward over the as in other Neotettix species. Detailed examination of pronotal shape and venation patterns would be required for definitive identification.
Distribution
Recorded from Texas, United States. Distribution within North America is poorly documented beyond this single state record.
Similar Taxa
- Other Neotettix species share the general body plan of pygmy grasshoppers with elongated pronota, but differ in pronotal sinuation; N. nullisinus lacks the sinus present in related .
- Other Tetrigidae generaMembers of such as Tetrix and Paratettix may overlap in size and general appearance, but differ in pronotal , shape, and wing development.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet "nullisinus" is a compound of Latin "nullus" (none) and "sinus" (curve, fold, or bay), referring to the diagnostic absence of a pronotal sinus in this .