Orchelimum concinnum

Can be distinguished from other meadow katydids (Conocephalus spp.) by larger body size and likely by the distinctive facial markings referenced in its common names. Separation from other Orchelimum species requires examination of stridulatory song patterns and detailed morphological characters. The genus Orchelimum is characterized by males being 'left-handed' in wing overlap (left forewing overlapping right), with a file of fine teeth on one wing edge and a scraper on the other for sound production.

Medium-sized katydid with long, thread-like antennae characteristic of the family Tettigoniidae. The species name "concinnum" and common names "stripe-faced," "red-faced," and "dusky-faced" suggest distinctive facial coloration, though specific details of live coloration are not well documented in available sources. Like other Orchelimum species, preserved specimens may fade from green to yellowish tones. The body is slender and adapted for life in grasses and meadows.

Inhabits tall grass habitats including wetlands, lush meadows, and prairies. Typical of meadow katydids in the subfamily Conocephalinae, which are among the most abundant orthopterans in grass-dominated ecosystems of the eastern United States.

Recorded from Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, and Cuba. Distribution extends across the southeastern and eastern United States with presence in the Caribbean.

Adults reach maturity in late summer and early autumn (August-September in temperate regions), when they become active in seeking mates. Activity period aligns with the seasonal cycle documented for other Conocephalinae species in eastern North America.

Omnivorous, feeding on grass seeds, leaves and flowers of forbs (non-grass herbaceous plants), and opportunistically on other insects including leafhoppers, planthoppers, and smaller katydids. Females may consume smaller conspecifics. The powerful mandibles are adapted for cracking grass seeds.

Hemimetabolous development with egg, nymph, and adult stages. Nymphs develop through summer, reaching adulthood in late summer. Males produce calling songs to attract females. During copulation, males transfer a spermatophore consisting of a sperm container and a protein-rich gelatinous spermatophylax that the female consumes after mating.

Males stridulate to produce species-specific calling songs for mate attraction, using modified forewings with a file-and-scraper mechanism. Songs are an important component of the acoustic environment in meadow habitats. Both sexes use front tarsi to manipulate food items while feeding. Threat displays may be employed when disturbed.

Significant consumer of plant biomass in grassland ecosystems; one study documented meadow katydids converting nearly 16% of rush biomass into insect biomass. Seed predation can reduce seed production of rushes and grasses by 30-50%. Serves as prey for larger katydids and other insect predators. Contributes to acoustic biodiversity of meadow habitats through male calling songs.

Contributes to the natural soundscape of meadows and grasslands; male songs are part of the 'insect symphony' audible to human observers. May be encountered during field work or recreation in wetland and prairie habitats. No significant agricultural pest status documented.

• Conocephalus spp. (lesser meadow katydids)Smaller body size; Orchelimum species are larger and more robust. Differences in song pattern and detailed genitalic morphology.
• Neoconocephalus spp. (conehead katydids)Larger size (some exceeding 7 cm), with distinctive cone-shaped head projection; Orchelimum lacks this head modification.
• Other Orchelimum speciesRequire song analysis and examination of male genitalia for reliable identification; subtle differences in facial markings and body proportions.

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life
• Bug Eric: Orthoptera Thursday: The Katydid's Menu
• ID Challenge #2 | Beetles In The Bush
• Bug Eric: How Insects Sing