Gladiator Meadow Katydid

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Orchelimum gladiator: /ɔːrˈkɛlɪməm ˈɡlædiˌeɪtɔr/

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Summary

Orchelimum gladiator, commonly known as the gladiator meadow katydid, is a species characterized by its distinct coloration, size, and song. It inhabits moist grassy areas in the northern U.S. and parts of Canada, as well as parts of southeast Asia.

Physical Characteristics

Male is 17 mm long; female is 18-20 mm long. Species is pale green with dark brown on occiput and pronotum. Amount of brown varies by individual. Features reddish eyes, long spines underneath prothorax, curved ovipositor close to abdomen length, slender wings, and stout yellow cerci.

Identification Tips

Posterior lateral sinus of the pronotum is poorly developed. Known for its song that is a series of ticks followed by a long shuffling trill.

Habitat

Damp meadows of tall grasses and sedges, wet edges of marshes, and areas with long grass close to water.

Distribution

Northern half of U.S. and southern Canada; also present in southeast Asia.

Diet

Feeds on plants, but also predaceous and cannibalistic.

Reproduction

Ovipositor is longer than usual among katydids, aiding in reproduction.

Predators

Horsehair worms use gladiator meadow katydid as a host in a parasitic relationship.

Ecosystem Role

One of the earliest native katydids in much of its range; can influence plant communities and serve as prey for various predators.

Tags

• katydid
• Orthoptera
• insect
• predaceous
• cannibalistic