Angle-wing Katydids
Microcentrum
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Orthoptera
- Suborder: Ensifera
- Infraorder: Tettigoniidea
- Family: Tettigoniidae
- Subfamily: Phaneropterinae
- Genus: Microcentrum
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Microcentrum: /ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈsɛn.trəm/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Microcentrum is a genus of angle-wing katydids found mainly in the Americas, characterized by their leaf-like appearance and diverse range of species. They are important components of their ecosystems as herbivores and contribute to the biodiversity of the areas they inhabit.
Physical Characteristics
Members of the genus Microcentrum often exhibit a distinctive body shape with wings that are folded over their backs, resembling leaves, which aids in camouflage. The most notable physical characteristics for identifying species in this genus are the presence or absence of a median tooth on the front of the pronotum.
Identification Tips
Two of the most common species, M. rhombifolium and M. retinerve, can be distinguished by the presence of a median tooth at the front of the pronotum in M. rhombifolium, while M. retinerve lacks this feature.
Habitat
Microcentrum species are typically found in various habitats across the Americas, including forests, shrublands, and grasslands. They are particularly common in tropical and subtropical regions.
Distribution
The genus Microcentrum is primarily found in the Americas, with a concentration in the New World and mostly Neotropical regions. In the United States, M. rhombifolium and M. retinerve are the most widespread species.
Diet
Microcentrum species are herbivorous, primarily feeding on leaves and other plant materials.
Life Cycle
Microcentrum undergoes a typical life cycle for Orthoptera, which includes egg, nymph, and adult stages, with development from eggs laid in vegetation to nymphs that molt several times before reaching adulthood.
Reproduction
Reproduction occurs via oviposition, with females laying eggs in suitable plant material, where the eggs overwinter before hatching.
Ecosystem Role
Microcentrum katydids play a role in their ecosystems as herbivores, contributing to plant material processing and serving as prey for various predators.
Collecting Methods
- Netting
- Hand collection
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol storage
- Pinning
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Microcentrum
- Katydids
- Orthoptera
- Insects